In case they needed one, Montville residents have an excuse to go all-out when they decorate their houses for the holidays this year.

The Montville Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring the town’s first holiday light contest, featuring a prize for the best light designs, according to department director Pete Bushway.

Judges from the Montville Rotary will evaluate the entries on the evening of Dec. 17 from the street in front of registered houses.

The owners of the best-decorated house will have their electric bill paid by the Uncasville company B&D Auto Body. The second-and third-place winners will receive gift certificates.

Contestants are encouraged to decorate their yards, porches, windows and roofs for the holiday season. The deadline to enter the contest is Dec. 15 at 3 p.m.

To enter, Montville residents can register at https://mth.montville-ct.org or by calling (860) 848-3030 ext. 380.

If contestants need some inspiration before they get started on their light displays, the Montville Holiday Parade might get them into the holiday spirit.

The parade will begin at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 6 at the Montville Funeral Home on Rt. 32 and will end at Town Hall.

Businesses, non-profit organizations, youth groups and individuals are welcome to register to walk in the parade. To register, call Montville Parks & Recreation at (860) 848-3030 ext. 721 or email pbushway@montville-ct.org.

The parade will be followed by the annual lighting of the tree at Town Hall, along with holiday carolers and awards.

Montville Youth Services will offer free hot chocolate and cider to parade-goers, and the Montville Youth Action Council will sell fresh popcorn for $1 to benefit Montville Social Services.