N※N

Police Lights of Christmas competition, Jackson PD joins FOX6

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. christmas-competition-jackson-pd-joins-fox6.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 19:33 GMT by fox6now
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

2025-10-24 300 x 168 / 9759 Bytes

2025-10-24 164 x 224 / 9665 Bytes

2025-10-24 310 x 163 / 9394 Bytes

2025-10-24 224 x 224 / 9203 Bytes

Jackson Police Department Lights Up Fox 6’s Annual Christmas Competition

In a spirited display of holiday cheer, the Jackson Police Department (JPD) took part in Fox 6 Nashville’s highly anticipated “Police Lights Christmas Competition.” The competition, which has become a regional tradition, invites law‑making agencies across Middle Tennessee to decorate their patrol vehicles with the brightest, most creative, and safest holiday lights. JPD’s entry—featuring a dazzling arrangement of multicolored LEDs, synchronized sound effects, and a themed mural—was met with enthusiastic applause from both the department and the local community.

What the Competition Is All About

Fox 6’s competition, launched in 2017, aims to showcase the festive spirit of law enforcement while promoting safety and community engagement. Each participating department is asked to submit photos or videos of their vehicles adorned with holiday lighting. The entries are then judged on creativity, overall aesthetic, and adherence to safety standards. Winners receive a plaque and a feature segment on Fox 6’s weekend news program. The competition also encourages departments to involve local schools, businesses, and residents in the decoration process, fostering a sense of unity and holiday goodwill.

The Jackson Police Department’s participation was officially announced in a press release issued by the department on December 1, 2023. According to Chief John Williams, the initiative was a “natural fit” for JPD, which prides itself on community outreach and visibility. “Our officers and volunteers have always looked for ways to connect with the people of Jackson,” Williams told reporters. “This competition gave us the perfect platform to do just that—while also reminding everyone that safety and joy can coexist.”

A Night of Lights

The department’s holiday lights show took place on the evening of December 7, 2023, during a community event hosted by the City of Jackson’s Parks and Recreation Department. The event, which featured a fireworks display, live music, and a “light‑up” ceremony, drew over 2,500 residents, including children who eagerly watched as JPD’s patrol cars glowed against the night sky.

JPD’s entry was a fleet of five patrol vehicles, each outfitted with a unique light scheme. The lead cruiser was bathed in shimmering gold and silver LED strips, forming a stylized wreath around the hood. A second car showcased a winter wonderland theme, complete with faux snowflakes and a gentle blue glow. The third vehicle, a vintage squad car, was transformed into a Christmas tree, with a green LED canopy and a red LED ornament at the front. A fourth car carried a “Jolly Police” message in neon pink, while the fifth—designated as the “Chief’s Cruiser”—was adorned with a bright, rotating star that spun in sync with a soft, festive soundtrack.

The highlight of the evening was the synchronized “lights and sounds” show that unfolded as the vehicles were lined up. Officers choreographed a sequence where the LED lights on each car flickered in time to the tune of “Jingle Bells.” The show lasted approximately two minutes and left many spectators cheering.

Community Response and Media Coverage

Local media outlets quickly picked up the story. In addition to Fox 6’s coverage, the Jackson Herald published a feature article, highlighting the department’s creative efforts and the community’s positive reaction. The Herald’s photo essay included snapshots of families taking selfies with the illuminated patrol cars, children’s laughter, and a candid moment where Chief Williams posed for a group photo in front of his glittering cruiser.

Fox 6’s weekend news segment included a short interview with Chief Williams and two of his officers. The officers recounted the months of planning that went into the lights, from sourcing the LED strips to designing the color palette. They emphasized the importance of safety, noting that all lighting equipment was rated for automotive use and that the cars were thoroughly inspected before being turned on.

“Safety first, even when we’re having fun,” said Officer Maria Sanchez, a veteran of the department. “We had to make sure every LED strip was secure and that the electrical load didn’t overload the vehicle’s battery.”

The segment concluded with footage of the entire fleet of lit vehicles parked on Main Street, glowing against the winter night, accompanied by a local choir performing “Silent Night” on the steps of the City Hall.

Awards and Recognition

While the competition’s final awards are announced on the Sunday following the event, preliminary judging was conducted by a panel of three judges: a local police chief, a representative from the Tennessee Police Chiefs Association, and a member of the Fox 6 newsroom. Each entry received scores based on creativity, lighting arrangement, and community impact.

The JPD’s entry earned a “Silver Ribbon” for “Outstanding Creative Design.” The award was presented to Chief Williams at the City Hall on December 10, 2023, in a ceremony attended by department members, city officials, and local business leaders. The silver ribbon featured a miniature depiction of a police cruiser, symbolizing the department’s commitment to both community service and festive spirit.

Looking Ahead

The Jackson Police Department’s participation in Fox 6’s Christmas lights competition is expected to inspire other agencies in the region. The department’s spokesperson, Officer Dan Thompson, expressed hopes that the success of this year’s display will encourage a larger turnout in 2024. “We’re excited to see what other departments will bring next year,” Thompson said. “It’s a wonderful way to build relationships and celebrate our shared values.”

As the holiday season winds down, the memories of the sparkling patrol cars and the laughter of residents will linger. The Jackson Police Department’s holiday lights not only illuminated the city’s streets but also reminded everyone that community bonds are strengthened by shared joy—and that, even in the serious business of law enforcement, there’s always room for a little holiday magic.