DAYTON, Tenn. (WDEF) – Rhea County is bursting with strawberry spirit as a decorating contest gets underway ahead of the Tennessee Strawberry Festival.
One of the first events to kick off the excitement is the Berry Beautiful Town decorating contest, which is now in the judging phase.
38 different homes and businesses registered to take part, transforming porches, storefronts, and neighborhoods with strawberry themed decorations.
The contest is designed to bring the community together while adding a festive look across the county ahead of the main event.
Judges are now traveling throughout Rhea County, evaluating each display based on creativity, theme, and overall presentation.
Participants are competing for cash prizes in both residential and business categories, recognizing the best displays across the area.
The decorating contest is just one part of the larger Tennessee Strawberry Festival, a long-standing tradition that features food, entertainment, and family friendly events.
The 79th annual Tennessee Strawberry Festival runs May 4th through 9th, bringing a full week of activities that celebrate the community and its signature crop.



