Who Can Enter?

• Open to all DC-area and surrounding DMV residents, creatives, and fair fans!

• No age restrictions – young artists and seasoned pros are all welcome.

• Individual and group submissions are allowed (one entry per person/group).

Design Guidelines

• No AI artwork allowed.

• The design should reflect the spirit of the DC State Fair – Culinary, Agricultural, and Art, and bonus – local pride.

• Keep it family friendly (no profanity, explicit imagery, or political messaging).

• Max 3 colors for easy screen printing.

• Must fit on the front of a t-shirt (approx. 12’’ x 12’’ space).

• Submit as a high resolution PNG, JPG, or vector file (.AI, .EPS, or PDF preferred).

Contest Timeline

• July 16 – July 30: Submit your design

• July 31 – Aug 2: DC State Fair Board selects the top 5

• Aug 3 – Aug 16: Public voting from the top 5 designs

• Aug 17: Winner announcement

• Aug 21 – Aug 31: Pre-order window

Submission Details

• Email your design to contests@dcstatefair.org with the subject line “T-Shirt Contest Entry – [Your Name]”.

• Include your full name, age (if under 18), email, and a short description of your design inspiration.

• Only one submission per person – choose your best work!

How the Winner is Chosen

• The DC State Fair Board will select the top 5 designs based on creativity, relevance, and appeal.

• The public will vote via an online form from Aug 3 – Aug 16. The design with the most votes wins!*

*The 1st place design will be featured on the official 2026 DC State Fair t-shirt, and the 2nd place design will be featured on the official 2026 DC State Fair tote bag.

The Prize

• Your design will be on the official 2026 DC State Fair t-shirt / tote bag and you will get a stage mention!

• You’ll receive a free t-shirt / tote bag featuring your design + a free mentorship session with Bailiwick CEO

• Major bragging rights and a spotlight on DC State Fair’s social media.

Additional Info

• The winning design may be slightly adjusted for print quality.

• DC State Fair will have exclusive rights to print and sell the winning design.

• By submitting, you grant DC State Fair permission to share your design for promotional purposes.