WEEK OF ENTRIES:

MUST CONTACT kingru@si.edu or 202-633-3677 FOR ENTRY APPROVAL

About the competition:

• Create a Day of the Dead Altar or Spooky Halloween Scene. These will be created by you and displayed for all to see at Friends of the National Zoo's Halloween party, Night of the Living Zoo.
• Day of the Dead themed displays are encouraged but not required. The display you create may be Day of the Dead, or a spooky Halloween scene, as long as it fits within the contest guidelines. (see Competition Terms).
• Competitors are required to create a minimum of one (1) six-foot table display. Complimentary tables will be provided upon request.
• Displays may be as elaborate, or modest as you choose.
• Prizes will be awarded.

 Judging will be based on the following criteria:

• Creativity, artistic design, and "wow" factor
• Cultural relevance
• Written dedication and meaning behind your display (not mandatory but suggested; tell us about your altar, and the meaning behind it)

The following will be provided for your display:

• Tables available upon request. Please include the number of tables you would like in the registration form. Additional tables may not be available the day of the event.
• Chairs available upon request. Note your request on the registration form.
• Parking. You will receive one (1) parking pass for the event. You will need to bring everything with you to set up and then take home your items at the end of the event.
• Admission for two (2) into the event space. If you have additional people helping you setup your display, please contact the events office to arrange for special tickets at 202-633-3677.
• Two (2) complimentary drink tickets. You earned it and we want you to enjoy the event too!

Participants responsible for:

• Minimum set up of one (1) six-foot table. Tables provided upon request.
• All decor elements in the space including, linens and specialty lighting (complimentary tables/chairs available with advance request).
• One person to remain in the space at all times. FONZ is not responsible for any items removed from space during the event.
• Disassembling your display at the end of the night and removing all items from the event.
• Any items left at the end of the event will be donated to the FONZ Events Department.

Registration Fee of $15 includes display space, 1 parking space, tables, and chairs.

Get Inspired!  Create your display as elaborately or modestly as you choose!  Include yourself or just utilize pictures and display items. 

Competition Terms:

• Minimum setup of one (1) six-foot table; tables provided upon request.
• Any elements deemed inappropriate or demeaning must be removed from the event site. Any failure to comply will result in immediate disqualification from the event and participant will be escorted off the premises. Please contact the FONZ Event Department in advance if you are unsure if your display will be considered "inappropriate or demeaning".
• By registering for this contest, I/we agree to participate in the 2016 Day of the Dead Altar Contest and will abide by the terms and conditions set forth by FONZ, the NZP Police Department, and any other government agency making requirements concerning the event.
• Your display space and the surrounding area must be left in a clean, undamaged condition at the end of the event.
• This is a rain or shine event. In case of rain, you will be provided with cover for your altar space.

For more information, contact Ruby King at 202-633-3677 or Kingru@si.edu.