BHPOA Holiday Decorating Competition

The Belle Harbor Property Owners Association (BHPOA) launched its first ever Christmas and Hanukkah home decorating contest on December 1, and has already received more than 40 nominations from the community.

“Families in Belle Harbor work hard to beautify their homes year-round,” said Paul King, President of BHPOA. “Holiday lights bring more beauty and joy to our streets. To recognize those families and to add a little more fun to the holiday season, the decoration contest is a friendly competition that will have winners on every street between Beach 130th and Beach 141st.”

This is a community-focused event. Certificates of recognition will be made on each street. Awards will be given in various categories, including Best Block, Best Traditional or Religious Home, Best Modern Decorations, etc. Prizes will include BHPOA swag and gift certificates to local businesses. (To receive a prize, the homeowner must be a BHPOA member in good standing.)

Anyone in Rockaway can nominate a home in the competition area (Beach 130th-141st) by sending an email to belleharbor11694@gmail.com or by reaching out to a BHPOA Block Captain. Nominations will be accepted through Sunday, December 14. Evaluations will take place between December 15 and 21. Awards will be announced at a ceremony on December 22.

“As a civic association, we deal with many serious issues like crime, zoning and beach safety,” King said. “But the community itself is made up of people of faith and people who are good neighbors, who improve the curb appeal of Belle Harbor.” BHPOA believes the Christmas and Hanukkah home decorating competition brings these qualities together. It also provides an opportunity to celebrate Belle Harbor’s sense of community.

Since 1953, the Belle Harbor Property Owners Association has worked to maintain and improve the quality of life in the neighborhood. The Association represents families and homeowners between Beach 130th and Beach 141st Streets. The Association has more than 350 paying members this year. Its goal is to reach 500 before July 2026. Homeowners can pay their dues at www.belleharbor11694.org.