Call for Artists
Design Your
Heart Out
Parade of Hearts 2026 is a celebration of art, culture, and connection. As the Kansas City region takes its place on the global stage, we’re shining a light on the extraordinary creativity of the Heartland. This is our moment to show the world who has the largest hearts on the planet.
Deadline to apply:
August 13, 2025. No designs accepted after 5 P.M.
Step 1:
Download your heart template
Step 2:
Start your application to submit your design
Be sure to have your final title and description upon submission
Step 3:
After you’ve submitted your art, check back to theparadeofhearts.com for updates
Parade of Hearts 2025 Deadlines:
- June 9, 2025: Submissions open at 9 a.m. CT
- August 13, 2025: Submissions close at 5 p.m. CT
- October 2025: Artists and designs announced
- January 21 – February 7, 2026: Finished sculptures due (no extensions)
- March 2026: Locations announced
- April 4, 2026: Major public and private event
- April – August 2026: Public art display
FAQ's
Who can apply?
- Anyone with a strong KC connection (live here, raised here, or works here)
- All experience levels welcome, from hobbyist to pro
- Under 18? Must have parent/guardian co-sign and acknowledge on your behalf
Where do I apply?
- Submit through CAFE (CallForEntry.org)
- Upload your design and complete the application
What do I submit?
A complete and finalized design concept, including:
- Side 1 view
- Side 2 view
- Base design
- All designs must follow the official heart template for size, scale, and proportions
- Submissions must be full-color, finished rendering sketches, outlines, or written concepts will not be accepted
- Incomplete or non-compliant submissions may be disqualified without notice
- No changes allowed after submission
Can my design be about anything?
- Yes, artists are free to create from any inspiration
- 2026 theme Hearts of Unity: The Heartland’s Global Welcome is optional and open to interpretation
Can I work as a team?
- Yes, – must name one lead artist for all communication and payment
- If submitting as a team, team name will be publicly credited
- All team members must be listed in your CAFE application at the time of submission—no additions allowed after the deadline
What’s the artist’s stipend?
- $2,500 total
- $1,500 at heart pickup
- $750 at delivery
- $250 after final touch-ups in September
Do I have to sign anything?
- Yes, – all applicants must:
- Acknowledge that they have read, understand, and agree to the 2026 Parade of Hearts Artist Guidelines and Artist Agreement in the application.
- If selected, an official signed copy of the 2026 Parade of Hearts Artist Guidelines and Artist Agreement will be required
When will artists be notified?
Selected artists and their designs will be announced late September to early October 2025
Do I have to attend any events?
- Yes, attendance required for:
- April 4, 2026 public and private unveiling
- Post-display touch-ups before auction
Where can I find more info or ask questions?
All instructions, forms, and required details are available inside the CAFE platform
