The California State Fair Student Showcase debuts the best student made projects and is open to any California resident 5-18 years old.
Enter to win State Fair ribbons, boost your accolades and get recognized as being among the Best of California!
Youth Photography is now incorporated into Student Showcase. Please see the Guide for division and entry information.
*Competition will reopen February of 2027*
Check the guide for full instructions on how to enter. Guidebooks are updated regularly until June, so make sure to continue checking back!
2026 California Student Showcase Guide
2026 California State Fair General Rules
Step by Step Online Instructions How to Enter
2026 Drop-off Information
2026 Upcoming Pick-Up Information
Best of Show…………………………..$100, Golden Bear Trophy, State Fair Rosette
Best of Division ………………………$50, State Fair Rosette
1st Place…………………………………$30 and State Fair Ribbon
2nd Place ……………………………….$20 and State Fair Ribbon
3rd Place………………………………..$10 and State Fair Ribbon
Honorable Mention………………….State Fair Ribbon
Honorary Award………………………State Fair Ribbon (Class 1 (5-9 year old))
A special thank you to our competition prize donors. We appreciate your support.
In Memory of Dorothy Killian Painter: $250 Awarded to an Entry in Mini Quilt Categories of the family’s choice
| Dates | Details |
|---|---|
| January 29, 2026 | Entries open |
| May 8, 2026 | Entries close at 4:30 pm |
| May 15, 2026 | Results for accepted entries |
| May 29-30, 2026 | Entry Drop |
| June 26, 2026 | Artist Statements due by email |
| July 17, 2026 | Exhibition Opens |
| July 25, 2026 | Awards Ceremony |
| August 2, 2026 | Exhibition Closes |
| August 7-8, 2026 | Pick up artworks & awards |
Please see the guide for a full list of divisions and classes.
Join the Student Showcase newsletter list to get updates on this competition.
You’ll receive competition announcements and reminders.
