News Release

2023 SwampFest Student Art Competition

News Release Date: September 21, 2023

Contact: Gabrielle Alban, 803-647-3983

HOPKINS, SC – Congaree National Park is seeking entries for the Annual SwampFest Student Art Competition. This competition is an opportunity for young artists (grades K-8) from the Midlands to showcase their talent while celebrating the outdoors, Congaree National Park, and local heritage.

This year marks the 20^th anniversary of SwampFest. It also marks 20 years since Congaree Swamp National Monument was redesignated as Congaree National Park. The theme for this year's art competition is “Your National Park.” Entries should highlight the theme by depicting plants, animals, water, or recreational opportunities found within Congaree.

Park staff will select first place and honorable mentions for each grade level from the entries. The first place and honorable mentions will receive prizes. All student entries will be displayed at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center through the month of October. 

Entries for the art competition may be dropped off in person at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, Sunday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Entries may also be mailed to the address in the press release header, Attn. SwampFest Art Competition. All entries are due no later than Thursday, October 5, 2023. For more information, call 803-776-4396 or email [e-mail]

SwampFest is a local heritage celebration sponsored by SERCO and Richland County, taking place October 6-7, 2023, at the historic Harriet Barber House and grounds. On Saturday, October 7, a shuttle bus will travel between Congaree National Park and the Historic Harriet Barber House. Festival information may be found at http://www.congareeswampfest.com.