Holiday creativity will take center stage this year as local and regional artists, makers and crafters are invited to participate in the Friends of the Muscatine Art Center’s annual Heartfelt & Handmade Ornament Competition.
The festive fundraiser supports art education and community programming at the Muscatine Art Center and is one of three major annual fundraising events held by the Friends, a nonprofit organization working toward a $30,000 fundraising goal.
Participants may enter handmade ornaments, wreaths, tabletop decorations, small trees and topiaries. Because electrical outlets are limited, any lights used must be battery-powered or rechargeable. Each participant may submit up to 10 items.
Decorations made with living plants or food items will not be accepted.
A panel of judges will award $100 for first place, $50 for second place and $25 for third place. The public will also have a chance to select a People’s Choice winner, with voting continuing through Dec. 5, 2026.
Entries will be displayed in the Muscatine Art Center’s glass showcases near the main entrance from Nov. 7 through Dec. 4. Artists must submit their completed entry form and handmade items by Nov. 4. Incomplete entry forms cannot be accepted.
The first opportunity to purchase the one-of-a-kind holiday creations will be during the Heartfelt & Handmade Family Festival & Market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Muscatine Art Center. Admission is free, with proceeds benefiting community arts programs.
The Muscatine Art Center is located at 1314 Mulberry Ave. in Muscatine. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays until 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m.
For more information, call 563-263-8282 or visit the Muscatine Art Center website.
