It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and Farmingdale Village is launching a new contest titled, "The Best Holiday Outdoor Decorations." Residents and business owners can turn their properties into winter wonderlands and put their imaginations and creativity to the test by participating. The deadline for entries is Dec. 20 and participants may nominate themselves, a neighbor or a friend by stopping by Village Hall, 361 Main Street, Farmingdale or calling 249-0093.

The trend of elaborate outdoor decorating has grown increasingly popular in recent years, as Long Islanders have pulled out all the stops to make their displays sparkle, from candy cane walkways and icicle lights to Santa's workshop and even patriotic and religious themes.

Farmingdale Village Historian Bill Johnston and Deputy Historian Dan Looney will together pick a first, second and third place winner. "Residents go to great lengths each year to showcase their homes in a such a festive way during the season," commented Farmingdale Village Mayor Joseph Trudden. "We thought it would be fun to initiate a holiday contest that recognizes those who deck out their homes and businesses as well as inspire others to rise to the occasion and participate."