Honolulu Hale is buzzing with holiday spirit.  City departments are testing their creative chops hoping for the perpetual trophy in this year's tree decorating contest.

The Planning and Permitting Department decided to go non-traditional.

Employees from the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation hid their decorations from sight.

"So what's in the tarp?" said Moanikeala Nabarro.  "It's a secret.  You're going to have to wait and see."

Preparations and ideas for the big contest started in September.

"So, we had together 12 different ideas," said Cindy Fox from Budget and Fiscal Services.  "We posted those for about a week and all employees had up to three votes."

Shaka Santa and Tutu Mele are setting the tone.  This year's decorating theme is all about the ocean.

The creative ornaments we found -- bright coral spray-painted;  toothpicks make up the sea urchin and coral made out of packing foam.

The contest started in the late 1970s.  Departments used to hire professionals to design displays.  Coordinator Yvette Lee says they've scaled back over the years.

Sneak peek of Honolulu Hale Christmas decor

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