FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 15, 2026

Watertown — Mayor Sarah V.C. Pierce is inviting local children and teens to participate in a special community contest celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States of America.

The contest is open to City of Watertown residents ages 3-18 and encourages young people to reflect on what makes them proud to be American through art, writing and creativity.

Participants may submit one of the following:

• Artwork

• Essay

• Poem

Entries should reflect the theme: “Why I Am Proud to Be American.”

To ensure fair judging among age groups, submissions will be divided into the following categories:

• Ages 3-5

• Ages 6-9

• Ages 10-13

• Ages 14-18

All entries must be received by June 15, 2026. When submitting an entry, please be sure to include the contest participant’s name, age, address and contact information. 

Winning participants in each age category will receive:

• A special commemorative plaque

• A gift certificate to Frosty’s Ice Cream

• Public recognition during the Mayor’s remarks at the annual Independence Day Concert and Fireworks celebration at Thompson Park on July 1

In addition, all contest entries will be publicly displayed as part of the community’s effort to celebrate America’s 250th. 

“America’s 250th birthday is an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history, values and future,” said Mayor Pierce. “I’m excited to hear directly from the young people of our community about what being an American means to them and to celebrate their creativity and patriotism.”

Entries may be mailed to:

Mayor Sarah V.C. Pierce

City Hall

245 Washington Street

Watertown, NY 13601

Or emailed to: spierce@watertown-ny.gov. Those with questions can reach Mayor Pierce at spierce@watertown-ny.gov.