19th Annual Peep Show Fundraiser Returns to Westminster

Carroll County's popular springtime celebration of the colorful candy is back, raising funds for the arts council.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 8:58pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 19th annual Peep Show, a popular fundraiser for the Carroll County Arts Council, has returned to the Westminster Town Mall. The event features hundreds of creative displays using the iconic marshmallow Peeps candy, with this year's show including 196 entries. The fundraiser aims to raise over $120,000 to support youth programs, scholarships, and community events organized by the arts council.

Why it matters

The Peep Show has become a beloved Carroll County tradition, drawing thousands of visitors each year to celebrate the arrival of spring through creative and whimsical Peeps-themed displays. The event is a major fundraiser for the Carroll County Arts Council, helping to fund important community programs and initiatives.

The details

This year's Peep Show features a wide variety of entries, from pop culture references like 'Stranger Things' and 'KPop Demon Hunters' to classic themes like 'Star Wars' and Lego creations. In total, over 36,000 Peeps were used across the 196 entries. Visitors can vote for their favorite displays, with the proceeds going to support the Carroll County Arts Council's youth programs, scholarships, and community events.

  • The 19th annual Peep Show runs from March 26 to April 6, 2026.
  • The first Peep Show was held in 2008 with 60 entries.

The players

Stephen Strosnider

The executive director of the Carroll County Arts Council, which organizes the annual Peep Show fundraiser.

Billy Lyve

The executive director of the nonprofit organization Find Your Purpose, which is hosting a separate egg hunt event to benefit underserved youth and young adults in the community.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The first year, we had 60 entries. This year, we have 196 entries. It is clear Carroll County has a sweet tooth.”

— Stephen Strosnider, Executive Director, Carroll County Arts Council

“We have DJs. We have performers. We have a bunny jumping around. Each of the different vendors and sponsors had different games and prizes. It almost looks like a festival.”

— Billy Lyve, Executive Director, Find Your Purpose

What’s next

On Saturday, April 4, Find Your Purpose is hosting an old-fashioned egg hunt at Westminster City Park to benefit their youth and young adult programs.

The takeaway

The Peep Show has become a beloved springtime tradition in Carroll County, showcasing the community's creativity and love of the iconic marshmallow treat. The event's continued success helps fund important arts and community programs, demonstrating the power of grassroots celebrations to bring people together and support local causes.