EYC Lights Parade Poster Competition

The EYC Lights Parade Poster Competition invites artists to create the official image for Annapolis’s Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade, a holiday tradition in which festively decorated boats covered in lights travel through the harbor. The winning artwork will be used on posters, note cards, and other promotional materials for the 2026 parade.

The winner will be revealed at a November 12 reception from 5 to 7 PM. Entries will later be displayed in Maryland Federation of Art’s online gallery, where the public can vote for a People’s Choice Award.

When: November 12, with the winner announced during the 5–7 PM reception. Entry closed October 21, 2026.

Showtimes: Winner announcement and reception, 5–7 PM.

Venue: Circle Gallery, Maryland Federation of Art, 18 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Status: Closed for entry.

Competition requirements: Artists were asked to submit original two-dimensional artwork in any medium featuring an Annapolis landmark or skyline, one or more festively decorated boats, and the Eastport Yacht Club burgee. Artwork had to be created solely by the artist without generative artificial intelligence or reproduction processes.

Eligibility and entry limits: Artists from across the United States and its territories could participate. Each artist could submit up to two original works completed within the previous three years. Work previously shown in MFA’s People’s Choice Voting Gallery was not eligible.

Artwork size: The artwork had to measure at least 24 by 18 inches in either orientation. The maximum size, including the artwork’s edges and frame, was 36 inches in any direction. Limited-edition work had to include the total edition size.

Awards: An Eastport Yacht Club committee selected the competition winner, who received a $2,500 award. The artist receiving the most votes in the People’s Choice Gallery received a one-year Maryland Federation of Art membership valued at $70.

Exhibition schedule: Online submissions opened July 23. The entry deadline was October 21, 2026. The winner was announced November 12, followed by the online exhibition opening and People’s Choice voting on November 13. Voting closed at midnight on December 16, the People’s Choice Award was announced at 5 PM on December 17, and the online exhibition ended December 31, 2026.

Sales: Submitted work had to be available for purchase. Artists in the 48 contiguous United States could set a price, while other artists had to list work as Price on Request. Artists received 80% of sales, or 85% for Maryland Federation of Art members; MFA retained the remaining commission. Artists handled fulfillment, and eligible online-sale shipments could receive reimbursement of up to $40 in shipping costs with a receipt.

Gallery information: Maryland Federation of Art galleries are open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM. The Circle Gallery can be reached at (410) 268-4566 or info@mdfedart.org.

Tickets: Price not available