In Honor of Brigid (Molly's Mom)''As a child, one of my fondest memories was piling into the car during the holiday season to see Christmas lights. My mom would lead the way with an enthusiastic “Oooh,” and we kids, along with any friends riding with us, were expected to chime in with a big “Ahhh!” We’d laugh and giggle as we looked out the windows, amazed by the twinkling lights, holiday music, and characters dancing in the wind. Those nights gave me a deep love for the season, for family, and for community.
Tragically, after years of sobriety and a short relapse, my mom passed away from a heroin overdose right here in Cincinnati when I was just 13 years old. Now, as a mom of five, those drives mean even more to me. Every time we walk or drive past holiday lights, I think: These people deserve an award — for making others so happy! My mother’s legacy lives on through her children, her grandchildren, and all who knew her… and now, through this event.'' |
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History
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The Holiday Yard of the Week Contest has been a Westside tradition since 2020. Each December, neighbors nominate and celebrate the homes that bring joy and light to our community. From twinkling lights to holiday characters dancing in the wind, every decorated yard makes the season brighter — and that’s exactly why the contest exists: to celebrate the neighbors who light up the Westside and bring joy to us all.
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More Than a Contest
The Holiday Yard of the Week Contest isn’t just about lights and friendly competition - it’s about shining a little extra light where it’s needed most. Each year, the contest supports two local organizations making a real difference in our community.
Transformations CDC
🌐https://www.facebook.com/groups/621542117877767/ https://app.autobooks.co/pay/transformations-cdc A neighborhood-based organization dedicated to walking alongside immigrant families as they build new lives in Cincinnati. Transformations CDC provides housing assistance, food, clothing, and community support, helping families thrive with dignity. |
Weightless Anchor
🌐https://www.onebloc.org/weightless-anchor An outreach ministry uplifting women impacted by addiction and exploitation in Lower and East Price Hill. Weightless Anchor provides safe hospitality homes, meals, showers, clothing, and unconditional love, creating spaces where women can begin healing and reclaiming their lives. |
📌 Team Thoms is proud to support both organizations in 2025 and will match up to $1,000 in sponsor donations.
2025 Official Rules:
- Nominations open in late November.
- Every Wednesday before Christmas (December 3rd, 10th, and 17th), nominees will be published in an album on the Team Thoms Facebook page by 10 a.m.
- Voting will take place through likes and reactions on those photos, ending at 9 p.m. each Friday (December 5th, 12th, and 19th).
- Winners will be announced the following Sunday, with a Holiday Yard of the Week sign placed and prizes delivered that day.
- Houses or immediate families may only win once per year.
- New this year: Previous year’s winners (2024) are not eligible to win again in 2025. We know this may be disappointing to some, but it’s important that more families have a chance to shine! That said, we encourage past winners to still submit their homes—they will be recognized with an Honorable Mention for their continued holiday spirit!
- Only “likes” and “reactions” from real Facebook accounts will be counted.
- Winners will be chosen based on total engagement and at the sole discretion of Team Thoms – Coldwell Banker Realty.
