If the holiday spirit shines forth from your home's exterior in the form of twinkling lights and other glowing seasonal objects, be sure to let Guilford Parks & Recreation Department know now-and be sure to leave the night-brightening lights on Dec. 13 through 17.

Right now, Parks & Recreation is making a call for entries for its second annual House Decorating Contest. Guilford residents who register their address will be placed on a master list of homes with exterior decorated spaces that will be judged in categories including Most Creative, Most Holiday Spirit, Most Colorful, Most Original, and more. Registration is free.

The judging will take place during an unannounced drive-by at each registered home between Dec. 13 and 17, said Recreation Coordinator Ellen Clow.

Clow participated as a judge last year and said the town's first annual House Decorating contest received a great response.

"We had so much fun viewing last year's houses," said Clow.

Judges drive by to view the homes just as any passerby would. Decorated areas that will be considered for judging will be those located on the house front, in the front yard, front windows, and/or front door. For judging purposes, decorations and lights should be available to view from 6:30 to 9 p.m. between Dec. 13 and 17.

While it's always difficult to pick a winner for each category, Clow said judges are helped along by using the following decorating criteria: creativity, beauty, originality, holiday spirit, theme, humor, technological fantasy, and degree of difficulty.

The best prize of all may be bragging rights for some, but winners will also receive a prize from a nice assortment of goodies gathered by Guilford Parks & Recreation. More prize donations from businesses and organizations are always welcome; contact Clow at 203-453-8068 to donate.

Space is limited for entries in the second annual Holiday House Decorating Contest. Registration is free and available online at www.guilfordparkrec.com or by calling 203-453-8068.