Bristol, Tenn. **WILDLIFE WEEKEND**
The **Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center & Park** are excited to announce that they are now open for entries for the 18th Annual Wildlife Weekend Photography Contest. This event is an annual highlight in Bristol, Tenn., drawing nature lovers and photography buffs alike to the beautiful Steele Creek Park.
The contest welcomes **amateur photographers of all ages** to submit their best shots that capture the essence and natural beauty of Steele Creek Park. Whether it’s the serene landscapes, the diverse wildlife, or the vibrant plant life that catches your eye, this is your chance to showcase your talent!
The deadline for submissions is **September 23, at 11:59 p.m.**. To find all the details about the contest rules and how to enter, participants can visit the Friends’ official website or reach out via email at photos@friendsofsteelecreek.org.
All submitted photographs must be taken within Steele Creek Park and should emphasize the park’s natural elements. This not only means capturing the picturesque scenery but also potentially snapping shots of the park’s animal residents, like the graceful **great blue heron** often seen at the park.
According to Robin Feierabend, the coordinator of the contest, “The photo contest has become a highlight of Wildlife Weekend and a wonderful excuse for people of all ages to explore Steele Creek Park and discover something fascinating.” Each year, entrants send in a stunning array of photographs that highlight what makes the park so special and reinforce the community’s dedication to preserving it.
**Prizes** will be awarded in both the adult and youth categories, with a panel of professional photographers from the Bristol area judging the entries based on general interest, creativity, and technical merits. All submissions will be available for viewing online, and the winning entries will be displayed at The Nature Center throughout the year.
This year is particularly special as it marks the **27th Anniversary of Wildlife Weekend at Steele Creek Park**. The event is packed with activities including children’s events, expert speakers, and guided interpretive walks. All these activities are designed to deepen the community’s understanding and appreciation of the park’s natural history and the regional ecosystem.
The winners of the photography contest will be announced following the Friday evening keynote presentation, which also serves as the traditional kick-off event for the weekend.
The Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center & Park is a registered nonprofit, volunteer-based organization. Their mission is to support the Nature Center and its staff in their educational, recreational, and research activities. They also play a significant role in the development and upkeep of park trails, gardens, and facilities, along with preserving and protecting the natural areas of Steele Creek Park.
For more information about the contest and other Wildlife Weekend activities, interested parties can contact Robin Feierabend at **(423) 764-3336** or send an email to **photos@friendsofsteelecreek.org**.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to get outdoors, explore, and maybe even win some bragging rights with your photos of Steele Creek Park! Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just love snapping shots with your phone, this contest is for you. Happy shooting!
