Samuels Public Library Invites Young Writers and Artists to Enter 48th Annual Holiday Contest

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can submit holiday stories, poems, and artwork through October 30 for a chance to have their creations published.

Young writers and artists throughout Front Royal and Warren County can share their creativity this fall as Samuels Public Library hosts its 48th Annual Holiday Writing Contest.

The longtime holiday tradition invites students in kindergarten through 12th grade to create original short stories, poems, or festive drawings inspired by the winter holiday season.

The contest opened October 1, 2026, and will accept entries through Friday, October 30, at 5 p.m.

The annual event encourages children and teenagers to use their imaginations, develop their creative skills, and celebrate the holidays through writing and art.

Students of all abilities are welcome to participate. Children with special needs may enter at the grade level that best matches their abilities, regardless of age.

One highlight of the contest is the chance for young creators to see their work professionally published.

Each winner will receive a keepsake booklet featuring selected contest entries. First-place winners in each grade will also receive a gift certificate to a local bookstore.

For many participating families, the contest has become a special annual tradition, offering children a chance to share their talents and receive recognition for their efforts.

“We are so happy to host this contest each year, and to see how thrilled parents and children get when they have discovered they have been selected as winners,” said Michal Ashby, Youth Services Supervisor at Samuels Public Library.

The contest is designed to make participation accessible to students with a wide range of interests and abilities. Whether a child enjoys telling stories, writing poetry, or creating colorful holiday illustrations, they can take part.

Entry forms and contest guidelines are available at Samuels Public Library and area schools.

Submit all completed entries directly to Samuels Public Library by 5 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026.

Families with questions about the contest, eligibility, or submission requirements can contact Michal Ashby at (540) 635-3153.

A Longstanding Community Tradition

Now in its 48th year, the Holiday Writing Contest is one of the library’s longstanding programs encouraging literacy, creativity, and community involvement among young people.

The contest reflects the library’s broader commitment to helping children develop an appreciation for reading, writing, and artistic expression.

Samuels Public Library has served the Front Royal and Warren County community for more than two centuries. Originally founded in 1799 and renamed Samuels Public Library in 1952, it was the second library in Virginia to receive a charter.

Today, the library continues to serve as a community resource through its collections, educational programs, and activities for residents of all ages.

Last fiscal year, the library added 1,924 new cardholders and hosted 1,312 in-person and virtual programs, attracting 25,667 attendees.

The library also welcomed more than 132,000 visitors annually and recorded 397,546 checkouts during the last fiscal year.

Programs such as the Holiday Writing Contest give young residents opportunities to discover new interests, build confidence, and share their creativity with the community.

With the October 30 deadline approaching, families are encouraged to help their young writers and artists prepare their entries and take part in this year’s holiday tradition.

Additional information is available at www.samuelslibrary.net or by calling (540) 635-3153.