Seymour Seeks Student Essays, Artwork for 250th Anniversary

City accepting submissions exploring 'Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness'

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The City of Seymour, Indiana is looking for students to participate in an essay and art contest celebrating the 250th anniversary of America's Declaration of Independence. The city is accepting original artwork and essays exploring the theme of 'Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness' across various grade categories.

Why it matters

Seymour's 250th anniversary celebration is an opportunity to engage the local student community in reflecting on the core values and ideals of the United States through creative expression. The winning essays and artwork will be featured prominently during the festivities, highlighting young voices and perspectives.

The details

The essay contest will have categories for students in fifth and sixth grades, seventh and eighth grades, and for freshmen through seniors. The art contest will be open to students in kindergarten through fourth grades, fifth through eighth grades, and for high school students. Winning essays will be published during the 250th anniversary celebration, while the winning artwork will be displayed in City Hall.

  • The deadline to enter is 4:30 pm on April 30th, 2026.

The players

City of Seymour

The local government of Seymour, Indiana, which is organizing the 250th anniversary celebration and student contests.

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What’s next

Students can email their essays to mayor@seymourin.org, and submit artwork that is hangable or displayable at Seymour City Hall, located at 301-309 N. Chestnut St.

The takeaway

Seymour's 250th anniversary celebration is an opportunity for local students to creatively explore the founding ideals of the United States through essay writing and art, with the winning submissions to be prominently featured during the festivities.