Creative Arts Contest
Creative Arts Contest
Goal
To inspire and engage students across Leon County by connecting them to the global excitement of the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships through creative expression. This initiative aims to build local pride, increase awareness of cross country running, and foster a deeper appreciation for the cultural and community impact of hosting an international sporting event in their own backyard.
Theme: “Welcoming the World to Florida”
Students are invited to create original artwork that reflects the spirit of international friendship, Florida’s unique identity, and the excitement of welcoming athletes and visitors from around the globe to Tallahassee.
Rules
- Submitted on no larger than 8.5” x 11” paper
- Entry form must be included to be considered
- Must be original artwork
- Must include the theme
Submissions will be accepted September 8th through October 31st. Winners will be announced on November 21st.
Judging
Visit Tallahassee Staff will judge all the artwork to determine the winners.
Display
Selected submissions will be printed and prominently displayed on-site during championship week and the day of the event.
Entry Details
Submission Process:
- Mail in
- Make sure the registration form is attached to each piece of artwork
- Mail to 315 S Calhoun St. Suite 830
- Digital submission
- Take a photo of artwork, save digital art, or scan in artwork
- If photo, try to make it fit the frame as best as possible, so it is just the artwork
- Make sure the registration form is attached to each piece of matching artwork
- Email the corresponding art with the registration form to dortchj@leoncountyfl.gov
Artwork may include:
- Florida landscapes, landmarks, or wildlife
- Symbols of hospitality and celebration
- Runners or athletes from different countries
- Multicultural elements showing unity and global connection
- Local pride in Tallahassee-Leon County or Apalachee Regional Park
Categories
- K-2
- 3-5
- Middle School
- High School
- Teacher with the most entries
Prizes
1st Place (per category):
- Artwork displayed at the event
- $100 gift card
- Event swag bag
- Two tickets to the World Cross Country Championship
- World Athletics Kids Swag (K-Middle)
2nd Place (per category):
- Artwork displayed at the event
- $50 gift card
- Event swag bag
- Two tickets to the World Cross Country Championship
- World Athletics Kids Swag (K-Middle)
3rd Place (per category):
- Artwork displayed at the event
- $25 gift card
- Event swag bag
- Two tickets to the World Cross Country Championship
- World Athletics Kids Swag (K-Middle)
Teacher Incentive Prize
Awarded to the teacher with the highest number of submissions from their class/school.
- $150 classroom supply gift card
- Recognition certificate presented at the event
- Feature on social media
- 2 VIP event tickets
Honorable Mentions
- Each participant receives a “Creative Champion” ribbon.
- Additional photos are displayed with a QR code link to the full gallery.
