Artists of all ages and abilities are invited to submit a design for the 2025 Carmel Christkindlmarkt mug.

These iconic mugs have become a must-have for the nationally ranked holiday Market, with more than 55,000 mugs sold in 2023.

"Our classic boot mugs are beloved by so many of our visitors, and have become a staple souvenir item," said Maria Rosenfeld, president and CEO of the Carmel Christkindlmarkt. "We are so excited to see what members of our community can dream up in their designs for this contest."

For the 2025 mug designs, artists can choose to stick with the signature boot mug shape or come up with an entirely new idea. Applicants can choose the colors, imagery, handle shape, material for the mug, and more when submitting their design.

Applications will be accepted April 1, 2024, though June 30, 2024. The applications will be reviewed by the Carmel Christkindlmarkt team and will be judged based on artistic merit, manufacturing feasibility, manufacturing cost, and how they are reflective of Market experience and the City of Carmel.

As far as design criteria, mugs must hold 0.2 liters, have a handle, say "Carmel Christkindlmarkt" and "2025," have the Carmel Christkindlmarkt logo, and feature only original or fair use imagery.

The winner will be announced in August 2024 and will be awarded $1,000 in prize money, four 2024 Christkindlmarkt mugs, and four 2025 Christkindlmarkt mugs. They will also be asked to participate in opening day and/or VIP Day festivities. The mug design will be unveiled in February of 2025.

"We have seen so much creativity from our artisans, vendors and visitors when they come and create in our activity area," Rosenfeld said. "We know that the community will come up with something incredible that our guests in 2025 are sure to love."

For more information or to submit an application, please visit: https://www.carmelchristkindlmarkt.com/mugcontest.

Please note: The 2024 mug will be the familiar boot shape in a yet-to-be-announced color; this competition is for the 2025 Market season.