'Tis the season for peace on Earth, goodwill toward men and Christmas lights — lots and lots of them.

After a one-year hiatus, the Corvallis Christmas Lighting Contest is back for its 16th year to get the holiday spirit shining bright.

"I don't know if it encourages people to put out more lights. I'm really trying to recognize those who do," said event organizer Terry Barker of Teel's Travel Planners.

Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place in three categories: lighting only, lighting and decoration, and neighborhood, for three or more houses.

Along with bragging rights, cash donations will be given to select local charities in the winners' names.

Teel's Travel Planners and the Corvallis Gazette-Times are sponsoring the event.

Entry forms can be picked up at either business or clipped from the Gazette-Times. Completed forms must be turned in by 5 p.m. Thursday. They can be dropped off at Teel's, 728 N.W. Kings Blvd., or the G-T, 600 S.W. Jefferson Ave.

Judging will take place Dec. 16, and a list of winners and a suggested driving route will be printed in a subsequent edition (Dec. 18 or later) of the Gazette-Times.

Homeowners are encouraged to enter their own homes, but they also can nominate their neighbors.

For more information, call Barker at 758-0808.