The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is excited to host holiday decoration contests for community groups! Whether you’re creating a festive gingerbread house or decorating a tree with Pittsburgh Pride, this is your chance to showcase your creativity and spread holiday cheer. Join us in celebrating the season by participating in our Gingerbread House Decorating Contest or Holiday Tree Decorating Contest. Gather your group, sign up, and let your imagination shine!
Groups and Organizations, please fill out the application forms below. Applications must be submitted by Friday, November 1. You will be notified of your acceptance by Wednesday, November 6.
Contest Policy, Disclaimer, and Agreement
- Liability Disclaimer: The Pittsburgh Zoological Society assumes no responsibility or liability for any items that may be damaged, lost, or stolen during the Tree Decorating and/or Gingerbread House decorating events. This includes all decorations, materials, or personal belongings brought to the Zoo for the contest. Participants are solely responsible for their items during the event. The Society is not responsible for any personal items during any programs, events, or classes held at the Zoo.
- Rules and Guidelines: By submitting the registration form for the Tree Decorating Contest and/or Gingerbread House decorating events, participants acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to follow all contest rules and guidelines. This includes abiding by any specific requirements for tree decoration, size limitations, and any other rules as specified by the event organizers.
- Use of Photographs: By entering the contest, participants grant the Pittsburgh Zoological Society and contest organizers permission to take and use photographs of the decorated trees for promotional purposes, including but not limited to, print, digital media, and social media platforms. No further compensation will be provided for the use of these images.
- Judging and Prizes: All decisions made by the judges are final. Prizes will be awarded based on creativity, theme, and overall presentation. Specific categories for judging and prize details will be announced prior to the event.
- Participation: Participation is open to individuals, groups, and organizations. Each participant or team is responsible for setting up and removing their decorations within the designated time frame. Trees and/or gingerbread must be decorated in accordance with the rules provided and may not contain offensive or inappropriate content.
By participating in the Tree Decorating and/or Gingerbread House Decorating event, you agree to all terms and conditions outlined in this policy.
Holiday Tree Decorating Rules
- Eligibility:
- The contest is open to organizations, and community groups.
- Each team or individual may only enter one tree.
- Tree Specifications:
- The trees will be provided by the contest organizers and will be displayed outdoors.
- Each tree will be approximately 6-8 feet tall and pre-lit.
- Participants are responsible for decorating their assigned tree.
- Decorations:
- All decorations must be suitable for outdoor conditions (rain, wind, snow, etc.). Use weatherproof and durable materials that can withstand the elements.
- Electricity will not be provided for decorations on the tree. The tree will be pre-lit.
- No decorations that include sharp, hazardous, or flammable materials will be permitted.
- Decorations should be securely fastened to the tree to prevent them from blowing away or falling off.
- No live animals, food items, or anything with strong odors are allowed as part of the decorations.
- Decorations must be family-friendly and appropriate for all audiences. Offensive, vulgar, or inappropriate content will result in disqualification.
- No political decorations or messaging of any kind is allowed. This includes, but is not limited to, campaign signs, slogans, or symbols that endorse specific political parties, candidates, or issues.
- Please do not hang ornaments that are valuable or hold special meaning.