Oshkosh Public Library's Creature Carnival returns. Here's how kids can enter for a chance to win prizes.

FILE - File photo of Oshkosh Public Library in November 2020.
FILE - File photo of Oshkosh Public Library in November 2020.

OSHKOSH - Leap into the world of the Creature Carnival where creators ages 2-18 bring to life the characters that live in their imaginations.

From Sept. 29 to Oct. 24, kids and teens are invited to submit original, handmade creations to the Oshkosh Public Library’s Children’s Department for a chance to win prizes in a variety of categories and have their creatures displayed at the library.

New this year, HobbyTown Oshkosh will provide gift certificates to first- and second-place winners.

All participants will receive a small goody bag with items to take home, the library said.

“This contest is an opportunity for children to relax and dream,” said Kallie Schell, children’s librarian, in a news release. “As they design their magical creatures, we hope to nurture their creativity and inspire them to connect in a meaningful way to stories and storytelling.”

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How to participate in Oshkosh Public Library's Creature Carnival Contest

Design an original creature that springs from your imagination. Whether it’s a monster, a robot or a magical being, the Creature Carnival highlights the limitless potential of creativity, the library said.

To make participation easier, the library is hosting two Drop-in & Create sessions — one is from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 22 and the other is from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sept. 29 in the Children’s Department. Kids can let their imaginations soar while grownups don’t have to be concerned about supplies or cleanup.

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The library said the drop-in sessions are meant to inspire, spark ideas and encourage hands-on creativity, even for those not submitting contest entries. Attendance at Drop-in & Create is not required to participate in the contest, though.

For contest rules, categories and other details, go to oshkoshpubliclibrary.org or call 920-236-5208. The library is at 106 Washington Ave. and can be reached at 920-236-5203.

Contact Brandon Reid at 920-686-2984 or breid@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @breidHTRNews.

This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Oshkosh Public Library Creature Carnival returns, kids can win prizes