Christmas Card Lane

2025 was the eighth year for this outdoor exhibit and competition comprised of larger-than-life 'cards' created by local artists and groups!

Each year, the cards are displayed in downtown Decatur's Preston Jackson Park from November through December.

The community votes for their favorite card design, and prize money is awarded to the top three designs!

Past Winners:

CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2025.
CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2024.
CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2023.
CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2022.
CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2021.
CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2020.
CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2019.
CLICK HERE to see the winning cards for 2018.

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Application Process and Fee

• $50 per card.
• There are a limited number of boards available... first-come, first-served.
• Email arts4all@decaturarts.org or call 217-423-3189.

Eligibility

The Decatur Area Arts Council “Christmas Card Lane” project is open to all artists or groups (amateur or professional) regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, or physical disability. You do not have to be a Decatur resident to participate.

Pick Up and Return of Cards

• Participants will be notified when they may pick up blank 'cards' starting September. Contact DAAC to arrange a date and time for pick up:
  • 217-423-3189 or arts4all@decaturarts.org.
• Completed cards MUST be returned by November 12 to the Decatur Area Arts Council.

The Art Work

• Participants will be provided with a 4’x6’ sheet of plywood (primed with white paint) upon which to create their card design.
• Artists must provide all needed supplies/materials other than of the wooden card.
• All design materials must be secured to the surface in such a way to withstand winter weather and wind.
• Participants are allowed to add elements to the card that create a 3-D effect and must be attached securely to the plywood.
• Designs must be winter/holiday themed and suitable for public viewing by all ages.
• Cards must be designed vertically.
• Please note that cards will be placed approximately 20 feet from the street, so keep this in mind when considering small details to your design.
• DAAC reserves the right to not display any card at its discretion.
• Holes will be drilled in the finished cards in order to secure them to the posts needed to support them for display.

Awards

• $200 first
• $100 second
• $50 third
• Prize money will be awarded within two weeks of the conclusion of the event.

Voting

The Decatur Area Arts Council will arrange for a temporary online voting page so the community may vote for their favorite card design November - December 24.