More than 100 high school students brought their artistic talents to Historic Downtown Brookville on October 13, transforming Main Street storefront windows into Halloween masterpieces. The Brookville Area Chamber of Commerce proudly congratulates this year’s winners, celebrating the creativity, imagination, and hard work of the young artists who continue a beloved community tradition dating back to 1957.

A panel of judges watched the students bring their artwork to life before evaluating the finished windows on artistic style, imagery, design, and technique. The Victorian theme also played a role in the judging, adding another layer to the challenge. With so many creative approaches and impressive details to consider, selecting the winners was no easy task.

The judges weren’t the only ones who had a say in this year’s competition. The Brookville Area Chamber of Commerce invited the community to take part in the People’s Choice Award by strolling Main Street, viewing the artwork in person, and voting for their favorite window. The goal was to build on a favorite tradition by encouraging people to get out, explore downtown, meet local shopkeepers, and enjoy the businesses and creativity that make Brookville special.

“We wanted to make this favorite tradition even bigger by getting more people downtown to experience it for themselves,” said Jamie, Executive Director of the Brookville Area Chamber of Commerce. “Take a stroll down Main Street, see the incredible talent of these students, meet the shops, and enjoy your downtown. This isn’t something you do online or on your phone. It’s about showing up, being part of the community, and experiencing Brookville in person. And they showed up! We received an impressive 175 votes this year, and that was exciting to see.”

With more than 100 students participating, the competition was fierce. Every team brought its own ideas, style, and interpretation of the Victorian theme, giving the judges plenty to consider. After careful deliberation, the winners of the 2026 Halloween Window Painting competition were selected.

First Place

• Paige Huffman (Grade 12) and Ally Wilson (Grade 12)

Second Place (Tie)

• Maggie Shaffer (Grade 12) and Luke Sorek (Grade 12)
• Lilly Reagan (Grade 12) and Leah Rafferty (Grade 12)

Third Place (Three-Way Tie)

• Brylee Stewart (Grade 11) and Baelynn Stewart (Grade 8)
• Clarissa McElhinny (Grade 11) and Avalee Shealey (Grade 11)
• Avonlea Lewis (Grade 8) and Max Shaffer (Grade 8)

Best in Show

• Lily Plyler (Grade 12) and Oliver Butcher (Grade 12)

People’s Choice Award

• Maggie Shaffer (Grade 12) and Luke Sorek (Grade 12)

The Brookville Area Chamber of Commerce extends a sincere thank-you to every student who participated, the judges who shared their time and expertise, the downtown businesses that welcomed the artists, and the community members who came out to appreciate the artwork and cast their votes. Congratulations to all the students who took part. Their talent and effort are what keep this tradition going strong.

“There’s a lot happening in Brookville, and we want people to be part of it,” the Chamber added. “Whether you’re supporting a local event, visiting a downtown business, or simply taking a walk down Main Street, every bit of community involvement matters. We’re proud to be part of these traditions, and we’re here for everything that makes Brookville a great place to live, work, and visit.”

To learn more about upcoming events, local businesses, and ways to get involved, visit BrookvilleChamber.com and follow the Brookville Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook.