An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
Official websites use .gov A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A
lock (
) or https:// means you've safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
Theme: "From Ideals to Action: The Road to Yorktown"
Embark on a creative journey that explores the rich history of Yorktown, Virginia — the iconic site of America’s fight for independence!
Yorktown holds a unique place in American history as the site of the pivotal Siege of Yorktown in 1781, where the combined efforts of American and French forces resulted in a decisive victory over British troops. This historic event not only marked the end of the Revolutionary War but paved the way for the establishment of a nation grounded in the principles of liberty, justice, and self-governance.
Join us in honoring Yorktown's rich history through art. Let’s show how our everyday surroundings connect us to the ideals of life, liberty, and freedom!
Who Can Participate?
All young artists from grades K - 12.
Artwork Guidelines:
Mediums: all types of artistic expression welcomed — two and three dimensional and multimedia.
Submission should be no larger than: 16” x 16” (for three dimensional 16” x 16” x 16”).
Focus Areas for Your Art:
Yorktown Then and Now: Explore the people, places, nature, and history of Yorktown. Create an artwork that shows what inspires you about Yorktown today while connecting it to its important role in American history. You may focus on landscapes, historic landmarks, community life, or the spirit of Yorktown across time.
The Road to Yorktown: The American Revolution was shaped by courage, sacrifice, and the hope for a better future. Imagine the journey toward the victory at Yorktown and the dreams people had for a new nation. Create an artwork that captures the ideas, emotions, and actions that helped shape America’s future.
Ideals in Action: Values like freedom, justice, equality, courage, and unity inspired the American Revolution and continue to shape communities today. Choose one of these ideals and show how it can be seen through people, actions, or experiences in your own life, school, or community.
Contest Awards:
Winners will be determined by voting. Non-Monetary awards will be presented to the top artists in the following categories: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12.
Best in Show will receive an Annual pass for Colonial National Historical Park and their artwork will be featured on the 2027 pass!
How to Submit:
Bring your submissions to the Yorktown Visitor Center between September 14 and 18, 2026.
All artists must submit a use waiver with their artwork. Download the form.
Other Important Information:
The park reserves the right not to display all submissions.
While efforts will be made to protect the artwork, the park is not responsible for any damage.
Artwork can by picked up from the Yorktown Visitor Center starting on or after December 1, 2026.
For more information please contact Dwayne Scheid at (757) 817-1622.
Unleash your creativity! Get inspired and start creating today!
