Round Hay Bale Decorating Contest
Are you ready to unleash your creativity and transform ordinary round hay bales into captivating works of art? Look no further! We are thrilled to announce the Round Hay Bale Decorating Contest, an exciting event that brings together individuals, groups, companies, and non-profit organizations to celebrate artistic expression and the beauty of the countryside. Get ready to showcase your skills, support a charitable cause, and have a whole lot of fun!
Imagine a blank canvas, but instead of paint, you have round hay bales waiting to be transformed. The possibilities are endless! Whether you’re an amateur artist, a seasoned professional, or simply someone with a passion for creativity, this contest is for you. Let your imagination run wild as you bring your chosen theme to life using paint, fabric, accessories, and decorations.
Rules
Eligibility
The contest is open to individuals, groups, companies, and non-profit organizations who wish to participate and raise money for a charity of their choosing. There are no age restrictions, and both amateurs and professionals are welcome.
Theme Selection
Individuals, groups, companies, and non-profit organizations must choose and submit their chosen themes during the registration process. The selected theme will serve as the basis for their hay bale decoration. Themes should align with the overall spirit of the contest and adhere to any specific guidelines provided by the Hopkinton State Fair.
Round Hay Bale Preparation
Hopkinton State Fair will provide up to 5 round hay bales, which should be in good condition and properly secured. Round Hay bales will be a standard size (approximately 48” by 48”) to ensure fairness in judging. The use of additional materials, such as paint, fabric, accessories, and decorations, is allowed.
Set-Up and Display
Participants will be assigned designated areas for setting up their decorated hay bales. They must adhere to the allocated space and maintain a neat and organized display. Hay bales should be positioned in a manner that allows easy viewing from all angles.
Set-Up and Decorating Schedule
- Set-up and decorating for the Round Hay Bale Decorating Contest will take place on Saturday, August 26, 2023.
- Participants may begin setting up and decorating their hay bales between the hours of 9:00 am and 3:00 pm.
(Tractor Assistance: A tractor will be available from 9:00 am to 10:00 am to safely arrange the round bales of hay to accommodate participants’ design needs. After 10:00 am, participants are responsible for arranging their hay bales using their own resources and manpower.)
Safety
Safety should be a priority during the contest. Participants must ensure that their decorations do not pose any hazards to spectators, participants, or the environment. It is essential to secure all items properly to prevent them from falling off or causing accidents.
Public Judging and Monetary Prizes
The judging for the Round Hay Bale Decorating Contest will be done by the general public through a monetary voting system. Each decorated hay bale will have a designated donation box nearby. Spectators and visitors can show their support and appreciation for their favorite displays by dropping money into the respective donation boxes.
Monetary Prize Distribution
The monetary prizes will be awarded based on the amount collected in the donation boxes. The display that accumulates the highest total amount will be awarded the first-place prize of $500. The display with the second-highest amount will receive the second-place prize of $400, and the third-place prize of $300 will be given to the display with the third-highest amount collected. These prizes will be in addition to the money collected in the donation boxes.
Display Breakdown and Belongings
After the conclusion of the Round Hay Bale Decorating Contest, participants are responsible for breaking down their displays and removing all personal belongings from the designated areas. This should be done in a timely manner to allow for the smooth transition and cleanup of the event space. Any materials, decorations, or props used in the display must be removed entirely, leaving the area clean and clear for subsequent use.
Participants may begin breaking down their hay bales display between the hours of 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. On Tuesday, September 5, 2023, between the hours of 9:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Hopkinton State Fair will not be responsible for any damage or loss of personal belongings left behind.
Participants are encouraged to exercise care and respect for the event space, ensuring that it is left in the same condition as it was provided. Your cooperation in promptly dismantling your display and clearing the area is greatly appreciated.
Please note that leftover hay bales provided by Hopkinton State Fair will be taken care of by the fair staff.
Community Involvement
The contest encourages community involvement by inviting the public to view and appreciate the decorated hay bales. Organizers can arrange for public voting or feedback to engage the community and increase participation.
Remember, the Round Hay Bale Decorating Contest is all about having fun, showcasing creativity, and celebrating the agricultural spirit. It’s an opportunity to bring people together and create a visually enchanting experience for everyone involved.