LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Friends of St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums is inviting the public to a creative holiday competition centered on Piney Point, the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac River. Participants will have the chance to build their own lighthouse model using interlocking building blocks and have their work displayed at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum throughout December.
The contest features two age categories—12 and under, and 13 and up—welcoming participants of all ages to showcase their design skills.
Challenge Guidelines
Participants must adhere to a few specific rules in creating their lighthouse models. All entries should be made solely from interlocking building blocks, although any brand is permitted. Finished models must be no larger than 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep and 24 inches high, and each entry should sit on a stable base, such as plywood or heavy cardboard, capable of supporting the model’s weight. The competition encourages originality, so no kits or pre-designed sets are allowed. Additionally, no electronic components or non-block materials are permitted.
Entries can be submitted in person at the main museum building located at 44720 Lighthouse Road in Piney Point, MD, between November 25 and November 30, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Once submitted, the models will remain on display at the museum for the entirety of December, with voting taking place throughout the month.
Engaging the Community in Holiday Spirit
The competition aims to bring the community together, especially during the holiday season, and encourage families to engage with Piney Point’s history and architectural legacy. “To really celebrate Piney Point Lighthouse during the holidays, we thought this competition would be a fantastic way to get families and the community involved,” said Karen Stone, Manager of the St. Mary’s County Museum Division. “What’s even more fun is that everyone will be able to see their creations on display at the museum!”
Voting and Prizes
Winners will be determined by popular vote. Visitors attending the museum’s December holiday events, including the Evening Tides and Holiday Open House, as well as those who visit the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum during December 2024, will receive a voting ticket with admission. Additional votes can be purchased in the museum store at five tickets for $1, with proceeds going to support the museum’s operations and programs.
The top builder in each age group will be awarded a $25 Amazon gift card, along with the distinction of being named 2024’s best lighthouse creator. Winners will be announced on January 2, 2025, with participants able to pick up their models from January 2 to January 12, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
How to Register
Those interested in participating should register in advance by emailing janet.cooper@stmaryscountymd.gov or calling (301) 475-4200 ext. 1832. Participation is free, and the competition is open to all.
For more details on the challenge, holiday events, or the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, visit www.Facebook.com/1836Light or call (301) 994-1471.
