The City of Long Beach and the Arts Council for Long Beach (ArtsLB) are proud to announce the return of the City of Long Beach Youth Art Contest, a citywide celebration of creativity and community spirit among our youngest artists.
Open to Long Beach youth in grades 1–8, the contest invites children to design an original piece of art or photography that captures the beauty and essence of our city, its neighborhoods, people, and culture.
Two winners will be selected from each City Council District:
- Grades 1–5 (Elementary School Category)
- Grades 6–8 (Middle School Category)
Each winner will be honored at a special ceremony at City Hall, receive a monetary prize, and have a high-resolution print of their artwork displayed in the Legislative Offices for the public to enjoy.
🖌️ How to Enter
Submissions may include 2D visual art (paintings, drawings, collages, prints, or mixed media) or photography.
- Entries must be original works created by the student.
- Submissions should be in PNG or JPEG format and represent the theme: the beauty and essence of Long Beach.
- Only one artwork per student may be submitted.
🗓️ Key Dates
- Application opens: Feb 20, 2026
- Application closes: May 3, 2026
- City Hall Recognition Ceremony: May 2026
❗ Requirements
- Maximum 36 x 36 inches.
- Minimum 8.5 x 11 inches
- Can be in color or black and white.
- MUST reflect the history, culture, and community of the district
💡 Prizes
- Elementary School Winners (Grades 1–5): $100
- Middle School Winners (Grades 6–8): $250
- Invited to City Hall, where their art will be displayed.
All winners will be celebrated for their artistic achievements at City Hall with a special reception and recognition before the Long Beach City Council.
📬 How to Apply
Submissions can be uploaded using the link: https://airtable.com/app3WCpi8W0euCi6E/pag14NJVnxEzQktGV/form
Presented in Partnership
This program is proudly presented in partnership between the City of Long Beach and the Arts Council for Long Beach (ArtsLB) to inspire, uplift, and celebrate the next generation of artists in our city.
Join us in supporting our local youth, share this opportunity with teachers, parents, and community organizations across Long Beach.