MUSCATINE, Iowa – The holiday season is the perfect time to celebrate creativity, community, and giving back. Local and regional artists, makers, and crafters are invited to share their talents in the Friends of the Muscatine Art Center Heartfelt & Handmade Ornament Competition, a festive fundraiser that supports art education programs for all ages.
The annual ornament competition is one of three major events that help the Friends, a nonprofit organization, reach their $30,000 annual fundraising goal. Every handcrafted entry directly supports the Friends’ mission to expand and strengthen community programming at the Muscatine Art Center.
How to participate
Handmade ornaments, wreaths, tabletop decorations, small trees, and topiaries are welcome. Because outlet access is limited, any lights must be battery‑powered or rechargeable. Up to 10 items per participant will be accepted.
Decorations using living plants or food items cannot be accepted.
A panel of judges will award 1st place ($100), 2nd place ($50), and 3rd place ($25). A People’s Choice Award will be determined by public voting through December 5, 2026, with entries displayed November 7–December 4.
Artists must submit a completed entry form along with their handmade items no later than November 4. Incomplete forms cannot be accepted.
All competition entries are now on view in the Muscatine Art Center’s glass showcases near the main entrance. The first opportunity to purchase these one-of-a-kind holiday creations will be during the Family Festival & Market that will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 5 at the Muscatine Art Center. Admission is free with proceeds supporting community arts programs.
About the Muscatine Art Center
Open Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. The Muscatine Art Center is located at 1314 Mulberry Avenue in Muscatine, Iowa. Call 563-263-8282 for up-to-date details or visit www.muscatineartcenter.org for more information about programs and events.
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City of Muscatine
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