Call for Entries: The 2025 PAVE + VMSD Window Awards, Presented by Travelstead

PAVE Global and VMSD Magazine are pleased to announce that submissions are now open for the 2025 PAVE + VMSD Window Awards, presented by Travelstead. The program celebrates the creativity and craftsmanship behind the holiday windows that inspire shoppers and communities each season.

For 2025, the awards expand to include a new North America category, opening participation to retailers across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. New York retains its two traditional categories: Department Stores and Specialty Stores.

“This year’s expansion marks an exciting new chapter for the PAVE + VMSD Window Awards,” said Dash Nagel, Executive Director of PAVE Global. “Holiday windows bring people together. By welcoming entries from across North America, we are celebrating even more of the artistry and storytelling that define the season.”

2024 Window Awards Winner - Macy's - Department Store Category

“We are absolutely thrilled to return as the Presenting Sponsor of the PAVE Global + VMSD Magazine Window Awards! Holiday windows are a dazzling celebration of imagination, skill, and teamwork. By expanding the program, even more creative voices can shine, and we couldn’t be happier to honor the incredible displays that bring joy and wonder to communities every year,” said Nick Travelstead, President of Travelstead.

Entries will be evaluated by a panel of industry professionals based on three criteria: originality and creativity, spirit of the season, and professionalism in execution.

To help ensure exceptional displays are not overlooked, PAVE Global and VMSD have introduced the PAVE + VMSD Holiday Scouts. These cheerful volunteers travel across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, spotting standout displays, capturing photos, and encouraging retailers to submit. The Holiday Scouts do not participate in judging.

The New York Window Awards will accept submissions in the Department Store and Specialty Store categories. Winners will be announced live at the 27th Annual PAVE Gala on December 12, 2025, in New York City. Both New York winners will automatically advance to the North America judging round.

The North America Window Awards will accept entries from retailers throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Winners will be announced through PAVE Global and VMSD’s digital communication channels.

2024 Window Awards Winner - Ralph Lauren Women's - Specialty Store Category

There is no fee to enter either program. Retailers may submit up to 25 photos and an optional video of their holiday window display. New York and North America each require their own submission form.

Submission deadlines:

• New York Window Awards: December 3, 2025, before 11:59 PM Eastern

• North America Window Awards: December 15, 2025, before 11:59 PM Eastern

Details for both programs, including submission forms for New York and North America, can be found at www.paveglobal.org/windowawards.

For questions, please contact info@paveglobal.org.

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About Travelstead, www.travelsteadgroup.com 

Travelstead provides end-to-end supply chain solutions, specializing in white-glove logistics for retail, hospitality, and other industries. From multi-store rollouts to individual deliveries, they ensure safe, efficient transport and setup of fixtures, furniture, and equipment. Committed to sustainability, Travelstead’s Green Solutions approach helps divert up to 85% of waste from landfills through recycling and reuse. With a global network and industry-specific expertise, they provide tailored logistics solutions that prioritize quality and efficiency.

About VMSD, www.vmsd.com

Since 1897, VMSD (Visual Merchandising Store Design) has been committed to providing retail professionals with the most up-to-date, innovative retail design ideas and industry news -- and to do so in a way that inspires, challenges, and motivates.

About PAVE Global, www.paveglobal.org 

Founded in 1992 as The Planning and Visual Education Partnership, PAVE Global is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, with all proceeds benefitting PAVE’s educational programs. The organization enables young talent to build successful careers designing and creating consumer environments. Our vision is to cultivate relationships with students, educators, and the design industry through financial assistance, top-industry thinking, inspiration, and mentorship.