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The Keysville Town Council announced last week that the annual Christmas parade will not be held but will use funds budgeted for the parade to help sponsor a decorating contest.

“With no way to guarantee public safety from COVID and not knowing how many entries there would be, it seemed the best course to cancel the parade,”  a release from the town said. “The council wanted to find some way to help boost spirits during the holiday season and decided to partner with the Keysville Garden Club and the Keysville Ruritan Club to offer cash prizes to some of the winners of their annual decorating contest.”

Town officials said they hope more homes and businesses will participate this year to brighten up the Town of Keysville and surrounding areas with the possibility of winning a cash prize.

One requirement of the decorating contest is that fresh plant material is incorporated into the decorations, which has raised some concerns, said town officials.

Velda Agee with the Keysville Garden Club said that although fresh materials are required, they could be a small part of the entire scene.

“In fact, lights on a bush or a sprig of boxwood in an artificial wreath qualifies as using plant materials,” Agee said.

The contest is open to those who live or operate a business in Keysville or within 5 miles of the town limits.

Entrants must register by noon Dec. 8. Judging will take place that evening.  More information can be found on the town website at townofkeysville.com.