This holiday season, small businesses and local artists were invited to participate in the Downtown Holiday Storefront Decorating Contest, transforming downtown Sandusky into a festive showcase of creativity and seasonal charm.
The contest featured four categories, including Merry & Bright, Classic Christmas, Humor, and Creative. Winning storefronts were selected by a juried panel, with one business awarded in each category.
- Merry & Bright: Daly’s Pub — A festive mix of tavern humor and colorful lights.
- Classic Christmas: Henry’s Shoppes — A nostalgic Macy’s window inspired display with large teddy bears decorating the trees.
- Humor: Mr. Smith’s Coffee House — Elves at work that captured the staff’s cheerful energy.
- Creative: Sora & Oak Sushi & Whiskey Bar — Holiday displays blending Asian influences with festive classics, featuring nigiri Santas, California-roll holly, and anime-style reindeer.
Honorable mentions went to Osupplies, Cheekz Burgers, and Musicians Alley, recognized for their dedication and festive spirit.
The talented artists behind the displays included Leah McFadden of New Creation Artworks, who worked on Daly’s, the State Theatre, Paddle Bar, and the Hubbard Building Condominium; Creative Storm, who contributed to Sweet Cheekz; Evelyn Moore of Paint Moore Dreams, who added festive touches to the Marketplace, Hogrefe Building, and Sandusky Wine Merchant; Alex Carrillo, who designed the Sora & Oak display; and Kylie Frederix, who created the Mr. Smith’s Coffee House display.
All the artists and small businesses brought so much cheer to downtown Sandusky this season, turning each storefront into a creative, festive experience for visitors to enjoy.
The contest was judged by Joey Cassel of New Departure Films, William Rutger from the Sandusky Library, John Kridelbaugh of the Sandusky Register, and Patrick Shepherd of the Greater Sandusky Partnership. ter, and Patrick Shepherd of the Greater Sandusky Partnership
Photos by New Department Films
