Applications now available for Emprise Bank Poster-Art Contest, entertainers, event organizers and food vendors; Sponsors sought
October 15, 2018 – WICHITA, Kan. – Wichita Festivals, Inc. today invited individuals and businesses to embrace their best and “Bring It!,” to Riverfest 2019, releasing the Call for Entries for the Riverfest Poster & Button Artwork Contest sponsored by Emprise Bank, as well as applications for food vendors, entertainers and event organizers for Riverfest 2019.
The planning season for Riverfest 2019 kicks off today. Since 1970, the festival been the area’s signature celebration, developed for the community, by the community. Artists who would like their work to become part of Wichita’s history and those interested in helping engage, entertain and feed festivalgoers will need to submit the appropriate applications, which have deadlines ranging from Dec. 1 to Jan. 14.
“As a member of the Wichita community or someone who just loves the festival, this is your chance to get involved,” said Ann Keefer, vice president of program development for WFI. “If you’ve always wanted to perform at Riverfest, now is the time to apply. We are also always on the lookout for the best festival food available. If you’ve got it, let us know! Want to turn your hobby or out-of-the-box idea into an event? We want to hear the details. Riverfest belongs to you, so bring it!”
Poster and button designs are sought for 2019 via the Riverfest Poster & Button Artwork Contest sponsored by Emprise Bank. The winning artist will receive a cash prize, which has been increased to $4,000 this year. All artists 18 or older are invited to participate and no fee is required to enter. Entries must be received by 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14 to be eligible.
“Artists have three different themes from which to choose when creating their design: ‘Downtown Get-Down,’ ‘Have Button, Will Party!’ and ‘Party on the Prairie,’” said Teri Mott, director of marketing and communication for WFI. “Or if they’re feeling really ambitious, they can create three designs: one for each theme.”
The winning artwork will be featured on the Riverfest 2019 poster, buttons, official T-shirt and other items, and will be used as the central artwork in promotional campaigns for the nine-day annual celebration, scheduled for May 31-June 8 in downtown Wichita.
Original Wichitennial and Wichita River Festival designs dating back to 1970 were created by local artists. Conducted periodically throughout the 47-year history of the festival, the annual contest was reestablished by popular demand in 2011. Release of the artwork is much anticipated and collectors value the pins, posters and buttons based on that artwork.
Local and regional entertainers also have an important place in Riverfest history. While national headline acts are much anticipated, favorite area bands and other performers have always been fundamental to the diverse flavor of Riverfest. Plus, iconic Riverfest events such as the bathtub races have sprung from the minds of local hobbyists and civic groups.
Those interested in contributing their talents to Riverfest can find New Event, Entertainment, and Food Vendor applications, as well as the Poster & Button Artwork Contest rules and application at WichitaRiverfest.com. Sponsors are currently being sought for Riverfest 2019 and those interested can contact Jennifer Green at (316) 267-2817, ext. 12.
Wichita Festivals, Inc. is a non-profit corporation with the purpose of creating diverse community celebrations within the Wichita community. The primary events produced by Wichita Festivals, Inc. are Riverfest (May 31-June 8, 2019), Bob Struble Memorial Golf Tournament (Sept. 6, 2019), and Autumn & Art at Bradley Fair (September 13-15, 2019). For more information about Wichita Festivals, Inc. or its events, contact Teri Mott at (316) 267-2817 or Teri@wichitafestivals.com.
###