COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dennis Smitherman, Interim Director of Recreation & Parks
DATE: January 20, 2026
SUBJECT: 2025 Lights, Sights, and Holiday Nights Award Winner Recognition
Description:
The City Council will acknowledge the award winners of the 30th Annual “Lights, Sights, and Holiday Nights Holiday Decoration Contest,” and extend its appreciation to all community members for their participation.
BACKGROUND:
This year’s winter season brought much -anticipated Lights, Sights, and Holiday Nights Holiday Decoration Contest. The Event celebrated its 30th anniversary. Through this event, Santa Maria homes are recognized for their creativity and effort in creating festive displays that light up the City. A map of the winning addresses is available through local media and on www.cityofsantamaria.org.
DISCUSSION:
This year’s contest welcomed both new and returning participants, with entries submitted in the following categories:
• Best Use of Lights – Haro Family
• Best Lawn Display – Strebe Family
• Best Holiday Theme – Garcia Family
• Best Overall – Yancey Family
• Best Business Display – Engel & Gray
Additionally, the Holiday Hall of Fame category recognized nine past winners who continue to provide beautiful and inspiring holiday showcases for the community to enjoy.
This category highlights their dedication to keeping the holiday spirit alive through their extraordinary displays. Nominations for all categories were submitted via emailed photographs.
Impact on the Community
This family-oriented activity fosters holiday sp irit and encourages community pride. By decorating their homes, residents contribute to a brighter, more festive Santa Maria, uniting the community and spreading holiday cheer for all to enjoy.