It may still be mid-August, but Hallmark is getting ready to countdown to Christmas.
For the channel’s 25th anniversary, Hallmark is hosting a contest to find the merriest Christmas town in America, looking for a town that captures the heart, wonder and magic of the holiday season. The contest finalists have been selected for “bringing the spirit of Christmas to life through cherished traditions, joyful celebrations, and a deep sense of community,” according to the Hallmark website.
Out of 25 towns from all over the country, North Conway, New Hampshire is one of the finalists. Here’s how to vote for the New Hampshire town in Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town Contest.
Why North Conway is a finalist for Hallmark’s merriest Christmas town
“There are towns that decorate for Christmas, and then there’s North Conway, New Hampshire – a place where the spirit of the season isn’t just celebrated, it’s woven into everyday life,” reads North Conway’s submission on the Hallmark website.
With snow glistening on the mountaintops, horse-drawn sleighs gliding through the winter landscape and sparkling lights glowing all throughout the village, the White Mountains town looks like it came straight out of a holiday postcard. Everywhere you turn, the locals are embracing the joyful spirit of the season through simple activities like building snowmen and gathering around the fireplace.
North Conway is also a top holiday destination for visitors, bringing locals and tourists together through holiday festivities like riding the Conway Scenic Railroad, searching for gifts in decorated local shops and the annual town tree lightings.
“Long after the season ends, visitors carry a little of that magic home with them, already dreaming of their next visit,” says the submission. “Whether it’s watching fresh snow fall over the mountains, admiring the festive decorations, or simply enjoying the warmth and kindness of the community, every visit reminds us of what Christmas is truly about.”
How to vote for North Conway as Hallmark’s merriest town
Want North Conway to win the contest? Votes can be submitted now through Sept. 4 on Hallmark’s website. Participants can cast one vote per day, per person.
After the voting period ends, the winner will be selected by a panel of judges, who will evaluate each town on community spirit, holiday traditions, neighborhood charm and goodwill. The winning town will have the opportunity to be a filming location for a Hallmark movie.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald. Reporting by Catherine Messier



















