Kids invited to design Farmers Market tote bag

On the heels of another winter snow storm, we are all dreaming of spring. And with that, the enjoyment which comes with fresh produce and flowers at local farmers markets.

In preparation for its 21st season, the Birmingham Farmers Market is inviting children of all artistic abilities, in kindergarten through eighth grade, to participate in an all new 2023 tote bag design contest. Entries will be reviewed by a panel of local judges, with the winning artist’s design to be printed on the 2023 Birmingham Farmers Market reusable tote bags, distributed to hundreds of marketgoers during the season. Designs receiving honorable mentions will be displayed at the market and shared on social media.

There are a few contest rules: Entries must be from children in K-8; entries should depict the theme “Farmers Market Fun;” all artwork submitted should be on white paper in a landscape format (8 1⁄2”h x 11”w); entries must be the artist’s own, original artwork and may not include elements that are not the artist’s own, original artwork.

Artists can use any medium of their choosing – pencil, crayon, colored pencil, marker, paint, oil pastels, etc...

On the back of each entry, be sure to put the artist's first and last name, their school and grade, the full name, phone number and signature of the artist’s parent or guardian, which signifies consent that their child's artwork may be reproduced and displayed, and that the name, school and grade of the artist may be used in PR and communications.

All entries must be received by the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) by Friday, March 24, at 5 p.m. If mailing, mail your unfolded artwork to: Birmingham Shopping District, 151 Martin Street, Birmingham, Michigan 48009. You may deliver your artwork in person, at the BSD offices, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Or email a high resolution image or scan (300 dpi minimum) to Jaimi Brook at jbrook@bhamgov.org.