From those draped in snow to create a winter wonderland to those using colour to bring festive cheer, the Yarra Ranges Council Christmas Window Competition was tightly contested in 2024.
But winners had to be crowned for each of the four regions based on the community’s votes and the final tally was released on Friday 13 December.
For the Hills, Geppetto’s Workshop in Sassafras received an incredible 598 likes for its window display.
This year, it was “loaded…with a beautiful scene of winter snow, fur tree, rabbits and a dream doll house” adding to the ambience found in the store.
“Elmo’s there too trying to pinch a present from Santa’s sack,” a description of the display read.
“We’ve got Christmas tunes playing, and we’re bursting with new toys, new brands and new ideas from all over the world.”
From voters, they were amazed by the window, naming it early as “the pick to win”.
“Magical. I feel the Christmas spirit from this one,” a commenter wrote.
“This Christmas window is truly magical! It’s so cosy and enchanting, creating a beautiful winter wonderland,” another person said.
“A special window into a Christmas world. So pretty and imaginative, it draws you in to explore the enchanting possibilities inside,” someone else commented.
In the Valley, Novel Nook in Yarra Glen was named the winner, receiving 34 likes from the community.
Inspired by an Icelandic tradition, the book shop owner Naomi Gibson created Yarra Glen’s very own pre-loved book Christmas tree.
“If the idea of settling in for the night with a good book and a drink – a hot chocolate if it’s cold, a glass of something chilled if it’s hot – sounds like heaven, then Iceland’s Christmas Eve Jólabókaflóðið (roughly, ‘flood of books’) tradition is for you,” she wrote for the competition submission.
“We believe everyone should experience the joy of books this Christmas season and create their own special traditions! We have created a fun display with a tree made entirely out of pre-loved books to create a bit of magic this Christmas!”
It was Yarra Valley Deli and Café in Wandin North who captured the votes for the Upper Yarra, gaining 41 likes for its rustic and natural themed window.
Commenters said the window tied in with the entire shop’s atmosphere and was a warm, inviting display for passersby.
“Looks gorgeous…The whole shop looks amazing, not just the window. A must visit and enjoy a coffee or purchase some local crafts for Christmas presents while you are there,” one person said.
“Simplicity and class, a delight to bestow. Well done for such an elegant display of Christmas joy,” someone else said.
“Absolutely magical, makes me smile everyday when I pass.”
And from the Urban region, Shapers Hair and Beauty in Mooroolbark was crowned the winner for owner Leeanne Thomson’s bright, fun and festive window.
“Christmas is my favourite time of the year. I love to create a Christmas window each year,” she said.
“I try to create a Christmas window that makes everyone smile and forget about the negative things in the world and smile about the positive and happy things we have and love.”
Donning giant candy canes, Mr and Mrs Claus, upside down elves and coloured lights, this display was glorious at all hours of the day.
In total, the Christmas Window Competition saw 1580 likes and 63 comments come through, sharing some thoughts on these festive creations.
The competition is a nod to all the incredible businesses in the Yarra Ranges who provide unique gifts and services perfect for shopping locally.
