NPS - National Park Service

08/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/21/2024 11:36

2024 SwampFest Student Art Competition Accepting Entries

News Release Date:
August 21, 2024

Contact:Gabrielle Alban

HOPKINS, SC - Congaree National Park is seeking entries for the annual SwampFest Student Art Competition. Co-sponsored by the Southeast Rural Community Outreach (SERCO) and the Friends of Congaree Swamp, 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.

In celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act, this year's theme is, "Wilderness is Closer Than You Think." Entries should be focused on plants, animals or recreational opportunities found within the Congaree National Park Wilderness. Park staff will select first place and honorable mentions from the entries. Entries will be displayed at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center through the month of November.

Teachers or parents/guardians are asked to drop off student entries in person at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center, open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Entries can also be mailed to the address in the news release header, Attn. SwampFest Art Contest. Students should write their name and grade on the back of their entry, along with contact information for either their teacher or guardian. All entries are due no later than Monday, September 30, 2024. For more information, call 803-776-4396 or email [email protected].

SwampFest is a local heritage celebration sponsored by SERCO and Richland County, taking place October 4-5, 2024, at the historic Harriet Barber House and grounds. On Saturday, October 5, a shuttle bus will travel between Congaree National Park and the Historic Harriet Barber House, where SwampFest is being held. Festival information can be found at http://www.congareeswampfest.com.

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