TRADITIONAL
BY THE SEA
TRADITIONAL
CREATIVE & UNCONVENTIONAL
SOMETHING YOU BELIEVE IN
TRADITIONAL
YOUR FAVORITE THINGS
BY THE SEA
ALL NATURAL
ALL NATURAL
ALL NATURAL
TRADITIONAL
NEWCOMER
SOMETHING YOU BELIEVE IN
TRADITIONAL
ALL NATURAL
A holiday tradition since 1989, the Doors of Shippan wreath decorating contest brightens neighborhood homes with a unique blend of grand, simple and joyful designs. Founded and sponsored by the Shippan Garden Club—which is celebrating 100 years in 2025—the project fosters community spirit while beautifying the southernmost shoreline section of Stamford.
More than 60 families entered the garden club’s first contest 44 years ago, and it remains a popular holiday tradition today. The contest is open to all Shippan residents, and entrants compete in eight categories: Newcomer (first-time entrants); Traditional (ribbons, bows, pine cones, berries, etc.); Creative & Unconventional (artistic and imaginative designs); Your Favorite Things (hobbies, toys, colors, pets, etc.); By The Sea (shells, driftwood, netting, etc.); All Natural (seasons, floral, garden, berries, citrus, spices, etc.); Arts & Culture (visual, dance, music, theater, etc.); Something You Believe In (religious, world peace, conceptual, etc.). All entries must include some fresh plant material, and no artificial flowers or foliage are allowed.
Here, we showcase a sampling of last year’s entrants to inspire you to break out your own seasonal swag and gorgeous greenery. And if you live in Shippan, the deadline for entry forms is usually the end of November, while judging—based on interpretation of the theme, craftsmanship and creativity—by a panel of garden club members is performed during the first week of December. Ribbons are awarded for category winners and runners up. For an entry form and guidelines, click here.
