APPLICATION DEADLINE: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH, 2026 BY 4:00PM
TIMELINE
November 9, 2026 ~ Deadline to submit applications (note: this is a first come, first served program; awards will be made on a rolling basis until funds are expended)
November 16, 2026 ~ Deadline funded decorations are to be installed
December 14, 2026 ~ Deadline for submitting receipts for reimbursement
January 31, 2027 ~ Deadline to remove harvest/autumn decorations
ELIGIBILITY
- For profit businesses and non-profit organizations in the Main Street District (Select the previous text to preview Map) are eligible to apply for and receive a Holiday Cheer grant
- Only one application and award per business / property owner
- Maximum grant request per business is $100
- Grant awards are first come, first served. Grant awards are subject to availability. Grants will be awarded up to the total funds available. Submit applications early for best consideration.
- Decorations must be installed by November 16, 2026.
- Decorations must be removed by January 31, 2027.
- Failure to adhere to the install and remove dates may result in not being eligible to receive grant awards in the future.
Ineligible businesses:
- Bail bonds businesses, hookah shops, adult bookstores, and other adult businesses
- Any business or organization outside of the Main Street District
- Any business or organization not in good standing with the City or State of Maryland
Use of Grant Funds
- Grant funds may be used for:
- Decorations such as lights, ornaments, window paint, wind clings, trees or Art Installations
- Decorations (indoors/outdoors) compliant with the Code Compliance Terms
- Businesses must have permission from building owners and be in compliance with lease terms provided by landlord for any proposed decoration.
- Indoor decorations must be seen and/or heard within 4 feet of the storefront window or façade for those walking/driving by.
- Grant funds may not be used for:
- Temporary single day services
- Non-holiday decorations, maintenance, equipment
- Decorations in any ineligible business (see above)
- Application Process:
- If application is approved, install decorations no later than Monday, November 16, 2026.
- In order to be reimbursed, receipts and itemized list of purchases must be submitted to the Office of Community Engagement no later than December 14, 2026. Dates on receipts must show that the purchase occurred after application approval date.
- Remove decorations no later than January 31, 2027.
IF YOUR APPLICATION IS APPROVED, YOU WILL RECEIVE AN AWARD LETTER AND REIMBURSEMENT FORM BY EMAIL DIRECTING YOU TO OUTLINE PRODUCTS/SERVICES, RETAIN YOUR RECEIPTS, & SUBMIT RECEIPTS & REIMBURSEMENT FORM BY NOVEMBER 16, 2026.