The inaugural Christmas container contest has been deemed a great success, Ironton In Bloom organizers say.

“We were extremely pleased with the Christmas containers this year,” Carol Allen of IIB, said. “It was our first year and it certainly brightened up Park Avenue as folks were entering and leaving the city.”

This was the first year for the holiday contest taking its lead from the fall decorative pot contest that is in its third year.

First place winner was Christ Episcopal Church featuring a lantern effect.

“Sallie (Schisler, priest in charge) and her landscaper put their heads together to create a pot that was beautiful and welcoming,” the Rev. A.J. Stack, church deacon, said. “It has a big welcoming look like a lantern post, especially with our new slogan, “‘The light of Christ’ at the corner of Park and Fifth. It worked quite well.”

Second place was by members of Lawrence County Common Pleas Court with a snowman container.

“We wanted something different,” Talitha Patterson said. “Crystal Hackworth painted the head. Once the head was made, it came together. We thought turning him into a great, big snowman was a great idea. This is an easy way to give back to the community. It’s not time consuming, not a lot of money invested. It helps the city of Ironton to look great.”

Third Place went to Liberty Bank with its shop Ironton theme.

The bank employees always participate in the fall contest.

“Anytime you do something to help get business downtown it is an improvement,” Judy Rice said.