If you’re starting to see more purple springing up around town, chalk it up to the excitement building for Relay for Life, which will be held in less than three weeks at Nansemond River High School.

The American Cancer Society’s annual fundraiser uses purple as its theme color, and businesses throughout the community are being urged to sign on to help spread awareness about the event — and about the fight against cancer — by ordering “Paint the Town Purple” kits. So far, about 50 have done so, and about 40 more are still available.

The kits include balloons, streamers, tissue paper, shopping bags, posters, fliers, table tents and more. Businesses are also welcome to throw in their own purple decorations.

Any business that participates and holds an in-store Relay promotion, such as a give-back day or a coin can, will be entered into a drawing for a sponsorship package for Relay, Peoples said. In addition, the best-decorated storefront will receive an award on the night of Relay.

“The whole idea is just to spread awareness for Relay for Life coming up,” said Chelsea Peoples, community manager for Relay for Life. “We’re looking to get as many businesses participating as possible.”

Relay for Life of Suffolk will take place from 6 p.m. to 6 am. May 20-21 at Nansemond River High School. Visit www.relayforlife.org/suffolkva for more information.