Timeline
| DECEMBER 1 | Deadline for Poster Art Submissions |
| DECEMBER 11 | Round 1 Finalists Notified |
| JANUARY 8 | Round 2 Submission Due |
| JANUARY 16 | Winner Notification |
| FEBRUARY 16 | Final Additional Materials Due |
| DECEMBER 1 | Deadline for Poster Art Submissions |
| DECEMBER 11 | Round 1 Finalists Notified |
| JANUARY 8 | Round 2 Submission Due |
| JANUARY 16 | Winner Notification |
| FEBRUARY 16 | Final Additional Materials Due |
Who can enter the contest?
The contest is open to both professional and emerging artists with a connection to the Pacific Northwest community. Group submissions are welcome with one designated primary contact. Previous U District Street Fair poster artists are eligible after a 3-year gap.
What does “connection to the Pacific Northwest” mean?
We’re looking for artists who live, work, study, or have significant ties to the Pacific Northwest region. This helps ensure the design reflects authentic community perspective and local creative talent.
What’s the difference between Round 1 and Round 2?
Round 1 is the initial entry phase where you submit a design concept and portfolio link. Up to four finalists will be selected to advance to Round 2, where they’ll create fully developed designs. Each finalist receives $500 upon their second artwork submission, regardless of whether they win.
What should my Round 1 sketch include?
Your Round 1 design concept should show your creative direction and vision in the 11in × 17in standard poster format. It doesn’t need to be fully polished—we’re looking for strong ideas and artistic approach. Include the required elements (event title, dates, website, sponsor logo area, etc.) and show how you’ll capture the U District Street Fair’s amazing energy. This is a family-friendly event that welcomes visitors from across the Greater Seattle Area and beyond. The poster will be distributed across Seattle and should be suitable for audiences of all ages.
What file formats do you accept?
For Round 1 submissions: a high-resolution PDF or any standard photo format (300 dpi) is acceptable. For Round 2 submissions: we prefer Adobe Illustrator (.ai) files, but also accept .eps or .svg vector formats. All designs must be vector-based for scalability and print reproduction.
What does “must work in single-color printing” mean?
While your poster should be full color, certain elements (especially typography and key visuals) need to remain clear and effective when printed in just one color, such as on t-shirts or promotional items. Consider how your design simplifies while maintaining impact.
Can I include specific U District businesses or landmarks?
Avoid specific business names or trademarked logos unless they’re universally recognizable U District icons. The poster should represent the entire community and event rather than promoting individual businesses. Focus on the overall character and energy of the neighborhood. Follow this link to see examples from previous years, dating back to the early 1970s.
What are the “additional marketing assets” the winner creates?
The winner will adapt their design for social media graphics (Instagram/Facebook posts and stories), merchandise (t-shirts, tote bags), four ad variations, street banners, tent banners, and more. These variations and their end usage are compensated as part of the $1,500 additional marketing assets fee.
Will I retain rights to my design if it is selected?
You grant The U District Partnership full rights to use the design for U District Street Fair and other U District promotion, including creating variations for different applications, event merchandise, and other collateral without additional compensation. However, you retain portfolio and attribution rights, and will receive credit on materials where feasible.
Can I submit multiple entries?
Yes, you may submit multiple design concepts. Each entry should demonstrate a distinct creative approach. Submit them as separate files following the naming convention provided.
What if I’m selected as a finalist but don’t win?
All four finalists receive $500 upon submitting their Round 2 designs, regardless of who wins the grand prize. This compensates you for the time and effort invested in creating a fully developed design.
Can I use AI tools to create my design?
You must submit original work that you have the rights to use and license. Your portfolio should demonstrate your personal design skills and aesthetic. The design must be your own creative work.
When will I receive payment if I’m a finalist or winner?
Finalists receive $500 upon Round 2 submission. The winner receives the $3,500 poster design fee upon contract signing, and the $1,500 marketing assets fee upon delivery of all final materials (due February 16, 2026).
Where do I submit my entry?
Email your poster design art to [email protected] by Monday, December 1, along with the contact information detailed here.
What if I have more questions?
We’re here to help! Email Marketing Manager Polly Yokokawa at the contest email [email protected] with any additional questions about the contest, requirements, or submission process.
The U District Street Fair is brought to you by The U District Partnership.