Shorewood Library Hosts “Strange and Unusual” Peeps Diorama Contest

Shorewood is hosting an annual Peeps Diorama Contest

If you’re looking for a creative challenge this spring, the Shorewood Public Library has just the thing!

From April 14 to May 25, you can take part in the annual Peeps Diorama Contest—an all-ages event that encourages artistic flair, a good sense of humor, and maybe a little friendly competition.

This year’s theme is “Strange and Unusual,” and the library invites you to interpret that however you like. Have a favorite mythical creature, spooky tale, or offbeat movie? Think of a way to incorporate Peeps (those iconic marshmallow bunnies and chicks) into your most imaginative diorama, and you’re well on your way to a memorable creation. Here’s how to take part:

1. Pick Up Your Peeps
   Starting April 14, head to the Shorewood Public Library to grab your entry form and a small starter pack of Peeps (supplies are limited). You’ll have plenty of time to brainstorm how to bring “Strange and Unusual” to life.

2. Make It Diorama-Ready
   Your final creation should fit into a shoebox and include at least one Peep. This challenge is perfect for everyone—kids, teens, adults, families. You can even team up with friends or co-workers.

3. Drop It Off
   Completed dioramas and entry forms must be handed in by Wednesday, May 7. That gives you just under a month to build something truly spectacular (or spectacularly weird).

4. Public Voting
   From May 12 to May 25, every diorama will be on display at the library. In-person visitors can vote on their favorites, so rally your friends and neighbors to come check out all the strange and unusual scenes.

5. Win (Marshmallow) Glory
   In the final stretch, winners will be chosen in five categories—adult, teen, child, mixed ages, and Shorewood Village Department—each receiving a special prize and, of course, ultimate bragging rights.

Peeps contest rules

More Than Just Peeps

Last year’s winners showcased the community’s creativity by using Peeps to illustrate a favorite book or movie. Winners included:

STAFF: ABBY OTT for The Very Hungry Caterpillar

ADULT: ERIKA GUNDMUNDSSON for Peepsommar

TEEN: JANICE MARSCHKA for Scythe

CHILDREN: LUTHER LARSON for Peep Wars

MIXED AGES: THE SINDHU FAMILY for Night, Night, Bunny

While the marshmallow stars grab the spotlight, this contest is an invitation to play with storytelling, art, and humor in whatever “strange and unusual” ways inspire you. It’s also a fun way to connect with the Shorewood community. You can meet fellow crafters or simply browse everyone else’s dioramas when the library proudly displays them in May.

Whether you’re a veteran Peeps sculptor or you’ve never worked with these squishy sweets before, there’s a place for you in this year’s contest. Mark your calendar, swing by the library after April 14 for your official entry form and Peeps, then get those creative juices flowing. Shorewood is ready for all things weird, wild, and delightfully out-of-the-ordinary.

For more on books and library programs in the North Shore, see our comprehensive guide to reading programs and libraries.