And that means it’s time for checking lists twice, dusting off stockings and putting up Christmas decorations, for The Courier’s Christmas Lights Competition is here again.

So whether you’re covering your house with dazzling lights,  putting up wooden cut-outs of Rudolph, Dancer, Prancer and friends, or inflating a plastic Santa Claus, don’t forget to let The Courier know.

As in previous years all households that enter will be added to an interactive map, which will help the people of Ballarat find the most dazzling of Christmas decorations.

You can register online on The Courier’s website from today and registrations will close on Monday, December 19.

Every house goes into the draw to win a $200 voucher from Bakery Hill Coles, to be spent on Christmas treats.

The winner will be announced before Christmas Day, whether they’ve been naughty or nice.