Saturday, June 13, 11am - 9pm - Sunday, June 14, 10am - 7pm
Art & Writing Contest
As we honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we celebrate the founding ideals of our nation—Liberty, Freedom, and the enduring American spirit.
But this contest is not just about history—it’s about you.
We invite students to create an original piece of art or writing that reflects what these values mean in your own life. This can be a personal story, poem, essay, illustration, or artwork that shows:
- What makes you proud of your country
- How you experience freedom in your everyday life
- How you serve your family, your community, or your country
- The values and spirit that bring people together
- Stories about family members, friends, or neighbors who have served in the military or as first responders
Think about the human story behind America—not just the past, but how these ideals live on today through everyday acts of kindness, courage, service, and sacrifice.
Selected artwork and writing will be featured and displayed at the America the Beautiful Festival, and winning entries will also be highlighted in local publications, giving students the opportunity to be part of a meaningful community celebration.
While we mark 250 years of our nation’s founding, remember these values are not just for one anniversary—they are lived and carried forward every day.
There are three grade level tiers for submissions:
- Elementary K-5
- Middle School 6-8
- High School 9-12
Grade level prizes:
Elementary K-5 : (Art only) 1st $75, 2nd $50, 3rd $25
Middle School 6-8: Art: 1st $100, 2nd $75, 3rd $50, Writing: 1st $100, 2nd $75, 3rd $50
High School 9-12: Art: 1st $150, 2nd $100, 3rd $75, Writing: 1st $150, 2nd $100, 3rd $75
All submissions must be electronic, jpeg for art, pdf for writing. All art should be 8.5 x11. Essays have a 500-word maximum. No AI is permitted, and entries will be tested for AI.
File naming conventions: title.lastname.firstname.school.grade.
All submissions are to be sent to: [email protected]
Submission deadline: 5 PM May 20, 2026
Winners will be announced on June 5, 2026, and displayed at the America the Beautiful Festival on June 13 & 14, 2026
Contests
Writing Contest
Presented by:
THEME: What makes “America Beautiful.”
American history is defined by one shining theme: patriotism. This contest is an opportunity to reconnect with our nation’s culture and traditions while reflecting on what makes America truly great.
Prizes:
- 1st Prize (1 Winner): $1,000 Cash + Sponsored Honor Flight* (*Must be junior or senior & 18 years old by Spring 2026)
- 2nd Prize (2 Winners): $500 Cash Each
- 3rd Prize (4 Winners): $250 Cash Each
- Honorable Mentions (2 Winners): $50 Gift Card Each
Requirements:
Eligibility: 6th - 12th grade
Length: 500 - 1,000 words
Format: Arial, 12-point font, double-spaced
File type: PDF ONLY
Submission: [email protected]
Deadline: June 8th, 2025
Subject line: ABF Art Contest
Include in email: Name, Age, Grade, and School
No writing from artificial intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT allowed. Submissions will be checked for AI.
Winners will be recognized in the Orange County, NY edition of The Epoch Times and at the 3rd Annual America the Beautiful Festival at New Century. Good luck, and we look forward to reading your inspiring essays!
Art Contest
Presented by:
THEME: Create an original artwork that represents "America is Beautiful.”
Your piece can showcase:
- Your dreams and aspirations
- Natural wonders of America
- Important figures or moments in American history
- Scenes from everyday American life
Prizes:
- 1st Place: $200 Gift Card
- 2nd Place: $100 Gift Card
- 3rd Place: $50 Gift Card
- Honorable Mention
Requirements:
Eligibility: K-5th Grade
Submission Process:
Submit a high-quality photo of the artwork via email to [email protected]
Deadline: June 8th, 2025
Subject line: ABF Art Contest
Include in email: Name, Age, Grade, and School
No writing from artificial intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT allowed. Submissions will be checked for AI.
Top 20 finalists will be invited to display their artwork at the
3rd Annual America the Beautiful Festival at New Century.