‘We ❤️ Lemont’ Drawing Contest Gives Kids Chance To Lead 2026 Keepataw Day Parade

Young artists have a chance to showcase their creativity—and earn a place at the front of one of Lemont’s most cherished traditions—as the Lemont Public Library and Lemont Keepataw Day launch the 2026 “We ❤️ Lemont” Kids’ Drawing Contest.

The winning artists will receive the special honor of serving as the lead banner carriers in the 2026 Lemont Keepataw Day Parade, which steps off on Sunday, Sept. 6, during Labor Day weekend festivities. The contest invites children ages 8 to 14 to create artwork that captures what they love most about living in Lemont.

This year’s theme, “We ❤️ Lemont,” celebrates the people, places, and experiences that make the community feel like home. Organizers encourage participants to draw inspiration from the many things that make Lemont special—from the library, schools, parks, and community pool to family, friends, neighborhood events, and favorite local traditions.

Young artists may also choose to highlight Lemont’s unique natural beauty, including its scenic waterways, towering bluffs, nature preserves, and outdoor recreation areas. Whether it's a favorite place, a memorable experience, or the people who make the community special, every drawing offers an opportunity to share what makes them say, “We ❤️ Lemont.”

One talented young artist will be selected to carry the lead banner at the front of the 2026 Keepataw Day Parade, giving them a memorable role in one of the community’s most beloved annual celebrations.

Entry forms can be downloaded from the Lemont Keepataw Day Drawing Contest page or picked up at the Lemont Public Library. Completed drawings must be submitted at the library by July 13.

Contest Details

Who Can Enter?

• Children ages 8 to 14

How to Enter

• Download and print the official entry form from the Keepataw Day website or pick up a copy at the Lemont Public Library.
• Create a drawing illustrating the theme “We ❤️ Lemont.”
• Submit completed entries to the Drawing Contest Drop Box near the Children's Section entrance at the library.

Deadline

• Entries must be received by Monday, July 13, 2026.

Important Information

• A parent or guardian must accompany the child in the parade if the child is selected.
• Participants must be available on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026, from 12:30 to 2 p.m.
• Questions may be directed to parade@lemontkeepataw.com.

The Lemont Keepataw Day Parade and Fun Fest is one of the village’s most beloved annual traditions, bringing together residents, families, organizations, and local businesses for a day of hometown pride and celebration each Labor Day weekend.

This year’s Keepataw Day theme, “We ❤️ Lemont,” is a celebration of the people, places, and traditions that make the community such a special place to call home. Organizers hope the contest will inspire children to reflect on what they love most about Lemont while sharing their creativity with the community.

So grab the crayons, markers, colored pencils, or paints and start creating. This is your chance to show everyone why “We ❤️ Lemont”—and perhaps earn a place at the very front of the parade.