The National Shrimp Festival, a staple event on the Gulf Coast, gears up for its 51st anniversary from October 10th to 13th, 2024. This festival, a celebration of the area's rich cultural heritage, invites artists to participate in its annual poster contest.

For the first time since 2020, the 2024 poster contest is open to the general public. The artist behind the winning entry will receive a $1,000 cash prize, along with the prestigious opportunity to have their artwork represent the 51st Shrimp Festival, offering significant exposure.

The contest welcomes all entries, with no restrictions on professional or amateur status. It's an open platform for anyone with a passion for art and creativity.

Entries must be submitted by Friday, April 5th, 2024. Submissions can be made either by mail or in-person. The festival's website provides detailed guidelines for this process.

The selection criteria focus on originality, relevance to the festival's theme, and visual appeal. Artists are encouraged to research the festival's history, understand its themes, and let their creativity flow freely. A winning design often balances tradition with innovation.

Looking back at previous winners, you’ll see a diverse array of styles and interpretations, each adding a unique chapter to the festival's history.