The Coastal Alabama Business Chamber is thrilled to announce the launch of the 51st Annual National Shrimp Festival Poster Contest, inviting artists to showcase their creativity for this much-anticipated event. The contest officially opened its doors on Monday, Jan. 8, marking a creative journey that could see your artwork become the face of this iconic festival.

For the first time since 2020, the poster contest is open to the general public, providing an exciting opportunity for artists from all walks of life to make a splash in the vibrant world of the National Shrimp Festival. The submission deadline is set for 2 p.m. on April 5, offering artists ample time to craft their masterpieces.

The winning design, to be selected by April 26, will become the official poster of the 51st Annual National Shrimp Festival. This winning artwork will not only contribute to the festival’s visual identity but will also play a significant role in the development of the festival’s retail merchandise.

Non-winning submissions can be retrieved at the Chamber office throughout May, but any remaining artwork will become the property of the Chamber after May 31.

Artists are urged to consider the festival’s themes of Art, Food, and Music when crafting their pieces. Incorporating key details such as the Festival Year (2024), Festival Location (Gulf Shores, Alabama), and Festival Name (51st Annual National Shrimp Festival) is essential. The poster’s actual size should be 18 inches horizontal by 24 inches vertical, with a border area. Suitable materials for submission include poster board, paper, canvas, or any medium easily scanned and reproduced.

To participate, artists can mail their poster creations to the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber at P.O. Drawer 3869, Gulf Shores, AL 36547, or drop them off in person at 3150 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores.

The winning artist will receive a one-time payment of $1,000, and if under 18, a parent’s signature on the contract is required to claim the prize money. Moreover, the winning artist may contribute small elements from their artwork for potential use in official Shrimp Festival merchandise, such as left chest designs and hats/visors.