Hillsborough Announces Patriotic Decorating Contest

‘Star Spangled Tribute’ planned for America’s 250th Anniversary

HILLSBOROUGH, N.J. — “In honor of America’s Semiquincentennial, Hillsborough Township is calling on all residents and business owners to break out the bunting and untangle the lights,” announced Mayor Catherine Payne at the May 12th Township Committee meeting. “The Township is officially launching our ‘Turn the Town Red, White, and Blue’ decorating contest, a star-spangled tribute to 250 years of national pride.”

The contest invites the community to transform Hillsborough into a living tapestry of patriotism leading up to Independence Day, looking for the most spirited displays of civic pride on every storefront, lawn, and porch.

Registration for the festivities opens on May 26th. Interested residents and local businesses must submit their entries by the deadline of Thursday, June 25th, at 12:00 PM. Once the field is set, the Township will release an interactive digital map and voting form, allowing neighbors to take a patriotic road trip through town from June 27th through July 6th to view the bedecked locations and cast their votes for their favorites.

Victory in this historic year comes with more than just bragging rights. Residential winners and runners-up will receive a Hillsborough History Bundle, while the top-rated residential and business displays will both be honored with a commemorative certificate and a photo in front of their display with Mayor Payne.

The patriotism extends to the halls of local government as well when Municipal Offices, including the Library, Board of Education, and town departments, lock into a friendly internal competition. The 250th Anniversary Planning Committee will serve as judges for the municipal displays, and residents are invited to walk through the Municipal Building between June 29th and July 7th to see which department has captured the most "Spirit of 2026."

To keep the celebration festive and safe for everyone, the Township has established a few ground rules. All decorations must be patriotic-themed and family-friendly, and the display of political slogans or party affiliations is strictly prohibited. While Township employees are encouraged to decorate their homes, they are not eligible for prizes. Additionally, those touring the decorated homes are asked to remain in their vehicles or, if on foot, stay on the public sidewalk, and are kindly reminded not to ring any doorbells.

All winners will be officially announced by July 15th. Residents ready to show their stripes can visit the Township website to register and help Hillsborough celebrate America’s 250th in grand style.