As the winter chill arrives, Social Tinkering, a Rutland-based nonprofit, is launching the fifth annual Light Up Rutland County, a festive community event to brighten the dark winter days. This initiative invites residents to illuminate their homes, schools, and businesses, encouraging community spirit, creativity, and connection across the region. Initially established in 2020, the event was created by Social Tinkering’s founder, Jeanette Langston, as a means of lifting spirits during the pandemic, and it has grown each year with the goal of reducing social isolation in Rutland County.
“Light Up Rutland County” is more than a competition; it’s an opportunity for individuals and groups to come together, showcasing creativity and enjoying the warm glow of decorations under the stars, organizers stated.
This year’s Program Director, Jackie Proulx, added, “This event invites Rutland County residents to come together, be creative, and spark some joy.”
Decorator registration begins on Nov. 4 and ends on Nov. 24. Households are encouraged to enter displays for categories including: Best DIY, best cozy winter glow, most whimsical, and judges’ choice, with participation fees helping to fund the event’s prizes and programs.
Businesses can compete for best interactive display, most creative, and brightest.
Schools across Rutland County also join in, decorating hallways to compete in the community’s choice and judges’ choice categories.
Non-public displays will be available online, where visitors can see photos and videos of the creative lighting across the county.
Prizes include experiences like a class at Kaleidoscope Art Supply and a massage from Holistic Happiness.
Although the prizes add a fun incentive, Langston noted that the real reward is the sense of community and connection the event brings.
“It’s amazing each year to see how people come together, creating beautiful memories and reminding each other that they’re not alone,” said Langston. “This event is our way to brighten each other’s dark days and help us feel more connected.”
Voting will open on Dec. 1 and run through Jan. 4, with winners announced in mid-January.
There is also an opportunity to y adding displays to the 2024 Lights Map for $5.
For more information, visit: socialtinkering.org/lightuprutlandcounty.
