Peeps Diorama Contest

Our Opinions on the Peeps Contest
Okay, so here’s the dealio- you should probably only go to this event if you are truly 100% passionate about Peeps. The Peeps Diorama show was held in the Artisphere in Arlington. After given a brochure about the event, we were directed to the 2^nd floor of the building where we started our self-guided tour. It was not what we expected. The dioramas were located on tables that were dispersed throughout the floor. They were cute, but not as impressive as we thought they would be. We looked at each diorama for approximately two minutes, and the only ones displayed were the runner ups, which we could’ve just looked at on the website. Overall, the peeps were cute, but the display wasn’t appealing.

Natalie with the winning diorama

I’m biased because I’m obsessed with peeps, so I thought it was awesome! I always look forward to the contest every year so visiting the Artisphere was a dream come true.

- Natalie

The peeps show was pretty cool and the “Hoarders” Diorama was my favorite. It is really fascinating to think how much time these artists put into their designs.

- Haley

 I thought this trip was a huge waste of time. I wasn’t impressed with the set up of the contest, and it wasn’t worth the drive over to Arlington. I only went because I know how much Natalie loves Peeps.

- Mishta 

Background
Location: Artisphere Arts Center - 1101 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22209
Marshmallows, corn syrup, gelatin, and carnauba wax. What do you get when you put these ingredients together? You guessed it – Peeps! Primarily used to fill Easter baskets, these sweet treats have also spurred a new tradition in the Washington area. The Peeps Diorama Contest started in 2007 and since then has evolved into a bigger and better competition over the years, attracting plenty of skilled artisans. Style Reporter Dan Zak states that competitors should “either create a masterpiece, or don’t bother entering”. Intense right? Last year, the Washington Post Peeps Diorama Contest drew over 1,100 entries, ranging from witty plays on pop culture to items of serious craftsmanship. This year, the winner of the competition was the "Chilean CoPeepapo Mine Rescue" diorama (pictured below courtesy of The Washington Post). The dioramas of all the contestants will be on display at the Artisphere until May 31. Who knew that these marshmallow treats could inspire such a level of creativity?!

The winner of the 2011 Peeps Diorama Contest

Admission Price: FREE
Time: 11 am - 11pm everyday until May 31st
Transportation: Metro Accessible from Rosslyn (Blue/Orange Line)
Our Rating: ★★☆☆☆