Community Celebration Planned for the 125th Anniversary of Washington Park Photo and Essay Contest

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Community Celebration Planned for the 125th Anniversary of Washington Park on Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Photography and Essay Contests kick off the Jubilee.

2024 marks the 125th anniversary of Washington Park’s establishment. To celebrate, Friends and Neighbors of Washington Park (FANS) with support from Denver Parks and Recreation is hosting a free Community Jubilee at the park on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Featuring a full schedule of activities and entertainment that will appeal to park users of all ages and interests, the day will include a parade, a variety of sports clinics and park activities, historical and educational displays, food trucks and live music.

Kicking off the celebration are two contests showcasing the vibrant, beloved oasis that welcomes nearly a million visitors a year. All are invited to share their view of Washington Park through photos and essays. Winners of both contests will be announced at the Jubilee on Wednesday, August 7 but do not need to be present to win.

After a seven-year hiatus, FANS is bringing back the popular photography contest. Photos illuminating the theme “Celebrating Wash Park” may be submitted at http://Fansphotocontest.com between May 15 and June 30 for an entry fee of $5.00. Winners will be chosen by the public via in-person voting during the Anniversary Celebration on August 7. Prizes will be awarded in youth and adult categories. The Adult People’s Choice Winner will receive $100 and the Youth People’s Choice Winner will be awarded $50.00. Semi-finalists will receive gift cards or non-cash prizes.

“Why Does Washington Park Matter” is the prompt for the first-ever Washington Park essay contest. Typed essays may be submitted between May 15 and June 30 at http://fansessaycontest.com. There is no fee to enter. Essays will be judged by a panel of educators, writers, librarians and community leaders.

Competition divisions are as follows:

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8-14 years: 300-500 words

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15-18 years: 500-750 words

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Adult (over 18): 750-100 words

Winners will receive book store gift cards. First place in adult division is $100.00. First place in youth categories is $50. Second place $35.00, third place $25 in all categories.

For more information contact

Bonnie Sutherland

fansofwashingtonpark@gmail.com

720 202-6201

FANS of Washington Park is a non-profit organization committed to supporting the park through education, programming and resources.

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