UP For Art And Families Unlimited Network Hold Caroling Competition

University Place has always been a community that brims during the holidays.

Now, a local arts group and food bank hope UP will come alive with the sound of Christmas for a good cause.

On Friday, Dec. 9, UP For Art and Families Unlimited Network will hold the first Duck the Halls competition at Market Square.

"We are encouraging people to form teams with friends, family members and co-workers," Mayor Debbie Klosowski says. "It should be a lot of fun."

Groups should prepare up to two holiday/seasonal songs up to eight minutes. Each group may prepare additional songs to entertain the crowd if time permits. Costumes are encouraged. All contestants must live, work or go to school in University Place. Professional singers are not eligible to compete.

Here are the categories:

*Large groups (10+ people)

*Small groups (Under 10 people)

*Students (Up to age 18)

Best part: Instead of paying an entry fee, 

Each group must provide at least five nonperishable food items per member. Audience members are also encouraged to bring donations.

Registration is limited. All entries are due by Wednesday, Nov. 16. For contest rules and entry forms, visit www.upforart.org or www.familiesunlimitednetwork.org.