Students in kindergarten through eighth grade can enter the city's annual Christmas Card Contest, with handmade entries due by Nov. 30.

The City of Florence announced the contest on Nov. 5. Students create festive, handmade cards featuring original artwork and holiday messages. In December, the cards will be delivered to local senior centers.

Mayor Julie M. Aubuchon, along with Mrs. Claus and an elf, will visit the senior centers to hand-deliver the cards, according to the city.

How to enter

The submission window runs Nov. 16–30. Students drop off cards at the Florence Administration Department at the Florence Government Center, 8100 Ewing Blvd.

Cards should reflect a holiday theme and may include Christmas trees, snowmen, ornaments or winter scenes. All entries must be handmade with original artwork. Store-bought cards will not be considered.

The city recommends a standard 5-by-7-inch card or half-sheet (8.5-by-5.5-inch) design. Students can use paper, markers, crayons, pencils, pens and other craft supplies that are securely attached. The city asks families to avoid glitter, confetti and other loose decorations.

Each student should write only their name and grade on the back. Teachers submitting classroom entries must include their name, contact information, school name and school address.

Awards and grade divisions

First-, second- and third-place winners will be selected in four divisions: kindergarten through first grade, second through third grade, fourth through fifth grade, and sixth through eighth grade. One entry will also receive the Mayor's Choice Award.

Winners will be announced at the City of Florence Christmas Tree Lighting on Tuesday, Dec. 8.

Late cards still welcome

Cards submitted after Nov. 30 will not be eligible for contest awards. But the city will continue collecting cards through Dec. 4 for delivery to senior centers.

Families and teachers with questions can contact the Florence Administration Department at 859-647-8177.

Upcoming

  • Nov. 16–30: Christmas Card Contest submission window, Florence Government Center, 8100 Ewing Blvd.
  • Dec. 4: Final day to submit cards for senior center delivery
  • Dec. 8: Winners announced at Florence Christmas Tree Lighting