The Village of Farmingdale is hosting the "Best Holiday Outdoor Decorations" contest, now in its second year. 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. 19 and participants may nominate themselves, a neighbor or a friend by stopping by Village Hall, 361 Main St. in Farmingdale or by calling 249-0093.

The trend of elaborate outdoor decorating continues to grow increasingly 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 such a festive way during the season," said Village Mayor Joseph Trudden. "We thought it would be fun to initiate the holiday contest that recognizes those who deck out their homes and businesses as well as inspire others to rise to the occasion and participate."