FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 2, 2026) – Today, during Kentucky History Month, Gov. Andy Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear announced the New Kentucky Home Arts and Writing Contest and invited Kentuckians of all ages to submit artwork, photos, videos, poetry and short essays via social media by June 18.
“We’ve secured $50 billion in private investment and broken our tourism records three years in a row because folks around the world are seeing what we already know: Kentucky is one-of-a-kind,” Gov. Beshear said. “We want to celebrate the very best of our state through your eyes.”
“This contest will allow our talented artists, photographers, videographers and writers to show the world what makes our commonwealth special and to reflect on Kentucky’s history and the bright future we have ahead of us,” Mrs. Beshear said. “I can’t wait to see your ideas, passion and creativity as we celebrate our New Kentucky Home.”
The Governor and First Lady provided three prompts to inspire Kentuckians entering the contest:
- What do you love most about your New Kentucky Home?
- What moment or person in Kentucky’s history inspires you?
- What is your dream for Kentucky?
Kentuckians can post photos or videos of their work on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube (or multiple platforms).
To join the contest:
- Post your work (or a photo of your work);
- Tag the Governor (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) and First Lady (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) in your post;
- Include the hashtags #NewKentuckyHome and #TeamKentucky in your post; and
- If you are a student, also include a hashtag with your age group: #Preschool, #ElementarySchool, #MiddleSchool, #HighSchool or #College.
Contest entries must be posted by midnight local time on June 18, 2026.
Winners in each age group will be announced throughout the month of July. Each winner will receive a complimentary two-night stay at Kentucky State Parks and a complimentary one-year membership to the Kentucky Historical Society (KHS).
Kentucky History Month
On June 1, 1792, Kentucky was admitted to the union, becoming the 15th state in the United States of America. Isaac Shelby was the first governor of Kentucky.
On June 2, 1910, Kentucky leaders dedicated the New State Capitol, which is currently undergoing its first full renovation in more than 70 years.
To learn more, visit KHS’s website or visit the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History at 100 W. Broadway in Frankfort. A free community celebration recognizing Kentucky History Day will take place on Saturday, June 6.