Far from being a blight this holiday, these empty Biddeford storefronts provide a showcase for creativity, as the normally vacant glass panes reflect the glow of Christmas lights, villages, ornamental balls and other decorations that herald the spirit of the season. Located in spots along downtown Main Street, the displays add light, color, and more than a little pizzazz.

The decorations in the downtown’s vacant storefront are thanks to the Biddeford Cares holiday event. It is a new effort to brighten the city’s downtown and also benefit local non-profit agencies. Last month non-profit organizations were invited to decorate vacant storefronts throughout the downtown. The decorations will stay up through New Years. Most of the landlords or property owners with vacant storefronts are participating.