LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The St. Mary’s County Arts Council (SMCAC) and the Port of Leonardtown Winery have opened submissions for the 2026 Wine Label Design Contest, inviting local artists to create the official label for a limited-run off-dry white wine that will be released in spring or summer 2026.
The annual collaboration between SMCAC and the winery combines artistic expression and community engagement while serving as a fundraiser for the Arts Council’s programs and scholarships. The winery will donate 10 percent of sales from the featured wine to support the Arts Council’s initiatives.
Artists who reside in St. Mary’s, Calvert or Charles counties are eligible to submit one original design. A panel of winery staff and Arts Council representatives will select the top three entries, which will then be presented to the community for final voting. The design receiving the most votes will be featured on the wine bottles. Second- and third-place winners will also be recognized.
The first-place winner will receive a $250 prize sponsored by the Port of Leonardtown Winery and a complimentary tasting gift certificate. The artist will be featured at the wine release celebration and will have an opportunity to sign bottles and interact with attendees. Additional opportunities, such as limited-edition prints and merchandise designs, may also be available.
Design submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Jan. 10, 2026. Three finalists will be announced Jan. 17, followed by community voting through Jan. 24. Winners will be revealed on Jan. 26.
For contest guidelines and submission instructions, visit the St. Mary’s County Arts Council website or contact SMCAC at info@smcart.org.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
