Popular Apple Decorating Contest returns for 2026 festival

After a successful first year filled with colorful creations and plenty of imagination, the Apple Decorating Contest for Kids is returning as part of the 49th Annual Unicoi County Apple Festival. Introduced in 2025, the contest quickly generated enthusiasm from young artists and their families. Because of the interest and participation during its inaugural year, the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce is bringing the contest back for 2026, this year in partnership with UT Extension Unicoi County, which will coordinate the competition. "We had no idea what to expect when we introduced the Apple Decorating Contest last year, but our young artists absolutely embraced it," said Amanda Delp, executive director of the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce. "We loved seeing their creativity and watching something as simple as an apple become so many completely different works of art," Delp added. "The response made it an easy decision to bring the contest back this year, and we are excited to partner with UT Extension to continue growing it." The contest is open to children ages 4 through 12, with participants divided into three age groups: Ages 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. Each child may enter one apple and is encouraged to let their imagination run wild. Participants may use the art medium of their choice, including construction paper, stickers, paint, glitter and other decorative materials, to transform an ordinary apple into a one-of-a-kind creation. Completed apples must be submitted to the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce office by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29. Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries in each age category, with winners announced on Saturday, Oct. 3, during the Unicoi County Apple Festival. All of the decorated apples will be displayed during the festival, giving thousands of festival visitors an opportunity to see and enjoy the young artists' creations. Last year's inaugural competition used the same three age divisions and encouraged children to transform apples with a wide variety of art materials, with the finished creations displayed during festival weekend. "One of our goals with the Apple Festival is to make sure there are opportunities for people of all ages to feel like they are truly part of the event," Delp added. "This contest gives children a chance to contribute something of their own to the festival, and I think having all of their apples on display makes it even more special. I can't wait to see what they come up with this year." For more information about the Apple Decorating Contest, contact the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce at (423) 743-3000 or UT Extension Unicoi County at (423) 735-1637.