Honolulu Sets $550 Prize Pool for Holiday Wreath Competition

The City of Honolulu announced the prize structure and submission details for its annual Holiday Wreath Contest on Sunday, Nov. 2. The competition is a component of the Honolulu City Lights celebration, and the winning wreaths will be displayed at the Lane Gallery of Honolulu Hale from Dec. 5 through Dec. 30.

This year's contest focuses on the theme 'Christmas in the Country.' The City has established three specific divisions for participants: an adult category for individuals or groups where all members are 18 or older; a youth category for those 17 and younger; and a special theme category open to any participant who incorporates the rural holiday motif into their design.

Monetary awards are available for first, second, and third place in each division, with prizes of $150, $100, and $75 respectively. The overall Best in Show wreath will receive the Mayor's Holly Award, valued at $200. Additionally, six Judges' Choice Awards will be distributed, with each recipient receiving $25. No individual or group may win more than one award.

Judges will evaluate entries based on workmanship, creativity, and the use of materials. For the special theme division, judges will specifically assess how effectively the wreath integrates the 'Christmas in the Country' concept.

Residents must drop off their entries at the Lane Gallery of Honolulu Hale at 530 South King Street on Monday, Nov. 30. Submission hours are strictly from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and early or late entries will not be accepted. Each wreath must be accompanied by a completed contest entry form, which is available at hnlcitylights.com.

The City will notify winners by Friday, Dec. 4. For further information, residents may contact the Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts at (808) 768-6622.