Enter the 2023 Pioneer Press Peeps Diorama Contest

Apr 01, 2024

"We Give a Peep About History!" by father-and-daughter team of Meg Duhr of St. Paul and Felix Schultz of Green Lake, Wis.: "This diorama is inspired by the West 7th community who rallied to protect the historic Justus Ramsey House. Through the artistic media of Peeps, cardboard, and watercolor, it attempts to capture the moment when the volunteer legal team served the temporary restraining order that saved the house from imminent demolition."

"We Give a Peep About History!" by father-and-daughter team of Meg Duhr of St. Paul and Felix Schultz of Green Lake, Wis.: "We used photos of the site to recreate as much detail as possible of the scene. All elements are hand made except for the fake snow. The backdrop was painted with watercolors and we used peeps to recreate the limestone bricks of the house."

"We Give a Peep About History!" by father-and-daughter team of Meg Duhr of St. Paul and Felix Schultz of Green Lake, Wis.: "It took some trial and error, as well as online research into peepitecture methods, to identify the best method for cutting and affixing the peep 'stones,' but we found that cold peeps and hot a knife worked best and the natural adhesive of pure sugar made an excellent 'mortar.' The peep bricks were then painted to match the color of the house. Unfortunately, many, many peeps were harmed in the making of this diorama--probably close to two dozen if you count the peeps lost to proof of concept testing."

"I would like to present to you: GoodEgg Thrift Store," writes Katherine Rose of St. Paul. "I had so much fun finding and creating items to stock the shelves. My fingers were covered in glue and paint by the end of this. Lots of items were made with paper, balsa wood and polymer clay. Did you know you can get miniature hobby trim at the hardware store? So adorable."

Honorable mention: Created by Doc Grauberger, Peggy Sanchez and Roxanne Sanchez: "We live in St. Paul! We were inspired by the DNR EagleCam, one of our fave spring pass times.Challenges include, deciding what was 'realistic' versus playful and resisting the urge to add blood."

"Reality Chick" by Kelsey Nesenson and Sage Waki, age 5, of St. Paul -- with Marsha and Mello as models. (Courtesy photo.)

"Reality Chick" by 5-year-old Sage Waki and his mother, Kelsey Nesenson, of St. Paul: (with help from Marsha and Mello): "We worked really hard on this silly image that depicts a baby chicken looking into a mirror and seeing rows of Peeps instead of its own reflection. The image plays on the idea of cute chicks and chicken peeps, a lighthearted and playful scene. The title 'Reality chick (check)' adds to the humor of the image, as it suggests that the baby chicken is getting a new perspective on the world around it. Overall, the image is a fun and whimsical take on the idea of self-reflection and self-awareness."

"Reality Chick" by 5-year-old Sage Waki and his mother, Kelsey Nesenson, of St. Paul (with Marsha and Mello).

"My sister and I built a Super Bowl 57 Peeps Diorama. My sister is 11 and named Trudy. I am 13 and named Felix. We are big Kansas City Chiefs fans and when they won the Super Bowl we had to make a diorama about it. We call it the 'Philledelphia Peeples vs. the Kansas City Chieps at Super Bowl 57.' I built the structure of the stadium and painted it while my sister did the details on the players and in the stands. We are very proud of it and hope it wins."

Minnesota "Peeps" Bound featuring Laura "Peep" Schara (the "Peep about the woods"), Bill Sherck and Minnesota Bound Millie Peep. Created by Laurie Hansen and Brian Croone in honor of the television program. Hansen writes: "Brian was the inspiration behind the idea to do the 'Minnesota Bound' show. He also built the cabin from an old Lincoln Logs set. I made the jackets out of red felt and used a black Sharpie to create a small enough buffalo plaid effect. The embroidery detail on Bill's jacket was done with a white-out pen and a black ink pen. Bill's hair and beard were a challenge because of the color. I didn't want to use yarn, so I found a good color on a small stuffed animal at Goodwill and used some of the fur. I used the grass and background from the last time I entered, but added more grass, spray painted it with a dusting of brown to look like winter grass and added real snow. The trees are the tops of my winter porch decorations. I had no near disasters, but I had to order two small picnic tables to make it wide enough to see, and when they arrived, the bench was too thin and the Peeps tumbled off. I had to snap off the opposite side and glue it to the front to make the bench wide enough. Millie is covering up the gap between the two tables. It was a fun creative experience for us both as usual. Thank you for the opportunity."

"Peep Blossom Bonsai" by Jessica Doody of St. Paul: "As a potter I typically work with clay, but in brainstorming ideas for Peep dioramas it popped into my head to try using the Peep itself as an artistic medium. I thought of interesting three-dimensional objects and was inspired by the ancient art of bonsai. I've always admired the delicate, elegant, balanced forms when viewing the examples at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory in Como Park, but this is my first attempt at grooming a bonsai tree myself. I used cardboard to create a basic structure, then adhered Peeps in the chocolate pudding, Dr. Pepper and sour watermelon varieties. The finishing touch was some tiny hard sugar Peeps as blossoms. I was impressed with how well the chocolate bunnies were able to represent gnarled tree bark (and it turns out that bunny ears are dead ringers for tree roots) and my favorite part is having their little Peep faces peeking out here and there."

"I was impressed with how well the chocolate bunnies were able to represent gnarled tree bark (and it turns out that bunny ears are dead ringers for tree roots)," Jessica Doody writes.

"Inpeepment" by JK Johnsdotter of Minneapolis.

"Landmark Center Birds" by Holly Watson-Wetzel, community programs manager for Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul: "Landmark Center sits across from Rice Park in downtown St. Paul. I often enjoy the space during lunch breaks or walks to and from work. Sparrows like to congregate in trees and bushes of the well-manicured park. Their tweets and chirps bring a cheerful touch of nature to the city. Only three Peep Sparrows were harmed (eaten) after this photo shoot."

The Schomburg family created this entry as a group project: "This year there was little debate about the theme we should use for our Peeps diorama. Ira 'Bob' Born passed away at the age of 98 and was known as 'The Father of Peeps,' and we all felt he should be celebrated and so did all the 'Peeps.' He was already a Navy veteran and physicist when he applied for medical school and was accepted. While waiting for his classes to begin, he took interest in his family’s candy factory, 'Just Born' and got hooked on the process and especially the machines that turned out the marshmallow Peeps. He also cut down on waste in the factory by coming up with Hot Tamales, which started out as a way to melt down Mike and Ike candies that were misshapen and spice them up with cinnamon to disguise the original flavors. Bob, if it wasn’t for you there might never have been a Peeps contest! We give you 'Bob Born Tribute.'" (Courtesy of Aaron Schomburg)

A diorama by Heidi Schomburg of Robbinsdale: "As a tribute to Bob Born, all the Peeps remember their maker ... from every flavor to every holiday. Created by Heidi Schomburg and generously submitted by her brother Scott, who she probably now owes because he is so nice and such a great brother for helping her with this. She probably is so grateful that next year her diorama entry will be a tribute to her brother. Just to be clear, she has four brothers, but Scott is definitely her favorite. Heidi does not qualify to be in the kids category."

"RIPeeps Bob Born" by Kathy Kilian of Woodbury, a tribute to Bob Born, the "Father of Peeps" who died in 2023.

"Rest in Peeps" in memory of Bob Born, known as the father of Peeps, who passed away in January. Created by Cecelia Valentine and Mary A. Valentine of Menomonee Falls, Wis. "The scene is him being honored by his Peeps family and some visiting guests. And yes, each character has a name and backstory we made up as we went along. Thank you for the opportunity to do something fun, strange, and a mother-in-law/daughter-in-law bonding experience."

"Peep Family Fun Game Night" by Martha Sohn: "I can only imagine what a Peep Family Fun Game Night might look like. I envision exciting rounds of Peeptionary as well as challenging sessions of Opeepation. Playing on an IPeep would certainly enter in as well as some creative Etch-a-Peeping. Of course wine and snacks will be provided. This will be the CHAMPIONPEEPSHIP! May the best Peep prevail!"

A detail from "Peep Family Fun Game Night" by Martha Sohn.

Honorable mention: "We are the RiverKnitters of Stillwater, a group of women knitters located in the St Croix Valley. We love to gather to knit, chat, work on community projects, and on occasion, enjoy a wee dram of bubbly. This year we decided to enter the 2023 Pioneer Press Peeps Contest! We toyed with a Minnesota State Fair Creative Arts theme – hoping for that elusive blue ribbon. Coincidently, Twincities.com featured a story on plans to change to the Minnesota flag. That was it! Knit & Purl Peeps decided to submit entries for the new state flag! The possibilities are endless. As you can see, the Peeps came up with many good ideas. Stone Arch Bridge, Snowflake, Big Dipper, Lotsa Lakes, North Woods, Pine Trees, Starry Night and an umbrella???? Lessons learned: Knitting with toothpicks is difficult -- Peeps had no problem. Impaling Peeps with toothpicks sometimes seemed cruel. Learned that fresh Peeps are easier to handle than dried, shriveled ones. We are of an age where old Barbie Doll furniture came in handy. Why are our attics full of Barbie swag?" -- Julia Costello, Brenda Doneux, Colette Goderstad, Denise Ostrom, Cheryl Ramier, Karen Richtman and Mary Zweber.

A group of Peeps knit ideas for a new state flag for Minnesota by the RiverKnitters of Stillwater.

"This entry is submitted by the Saint Croix Catholic School Student Council," writes Sister Mary Agatha, Student Council coordinator. "It is a tribute to the Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry."

"Arbor Peeps Green Up the Town" by Richard Gjertson, Sandy Tanck, Allie Quinn and Daniel Gjertson: "Created by the parents and partner of an arborist (arbor peep). It's to celebrate the dedication and hard work of arbor peeps everywhere to keeping the trees we all live with healthy and beautiful. This crew of six is greening up the town through tree planting and pruning in a neighborhood park. Get out this Arbor Day and thank your local arbor peeps for all they do. Richard handcrafted all of the painted wooden props (check out that pole saw, wood chipper and chainsaw!), Sandy created the whirling trees and backdrop, and Allie curated the wardrobe. Our expert arbor peep, Daniel, set the rope systems for our climbers. Our project build site was a heated garage in Waconia. Upon sending pictures of our initial progress to friends, it's clear most Minnesotans associate a wood chipper with Fargo. We took a slightly different direction and hope you enjoy it."

"Arbor Peeps Green Up the Town" by Richard Gjertson, Sandy Tanck, Allie Quinn and Daniel Gjertson.

Honorable mention: "When the Peeps Go Marching In" by Catherine Link of Rochester, Minn., and Deb Link of Inver Grove Heights: "We are so excited to submit our first-ever entry in the Peeps diorama contest. We decided to pay tribute to the Band of the Fighting Irish at the University of Notre Dame. Catherine (Class of 2021) was a member of the band for four years and played the trombone. Her sister, Elizabeth (Class of 2025), is a current member and also plays the trombone. Deb is the proud parent of both musicians. Our motivation in creating our diorama was to help Catherine pass the time while she was home for a month recovering from ankle surgery."

Honorable mention: "When the Peeps Go Marching In" by Catherine Link of Rochester, Minn., and Deb Link of Inver Grove Heights: "Here's a Peeps-level perspective of the band from the field," Deb Link writes. "Honestly, some of these Peeps have such distinctive personalities! Once we decided to move beyond plain blue Peeps holding instruments on the field, we got carried away and kept adding detail after detail and made each Peep unique."

A scene from "Peepeo and Juliet" by Kellee Dixon. She writes; "My daughter is an English teacher and is currently teaching her students about Shakespeare. My inspiration comes from her current lesson plans."

A closeup from "Peepeo and Juliet" by Kellee Dixon.

Honorable mention: "April Showers Bring Out Plowers" by Denise Steiner of Mendota Heights.

"With all these huge snow banks I saw, it seemed the perfect location for a Peep skiing a snow bank," writes Jeanene Baxter of Oakdale. "This is what I did on the last day of winter."

"2023 Fishing Opener" by Joanne Villard of Inver Grove Heights: "The inspiration was the pothole scene. There was no open water so I got creative and used the Pioneer Press bag the paper comes in! This is my first time doing this at age 65 and had fun doing it."

"Spring in Minnesota" by Becky and Victoria Johnson of Vadnais Heights.

"Haiku of Minnesota Winter" by Mary Huot, Elizabeth Rood, and Mary Rood.

"I Peep Getting Stuck in the Alley!" by Alisa Lein and Jeff Miersch of St. Paul. "Many alleys of St. Paul have been a challenging icy rutty mess this winter," the artists write in their submission. "We dedicate this scene to everyone who has gotten stuck while trying to navigate the difficult terrain of these alleys."

"2023: The Year of the Pothole" by Kim Spear of St. Paul. "This has been a year of amazing potholes throughout the city!" Spear writes.

"Peeps in Potholes" by Mary Overson: "My inspiration for this diorama is the persistent plague of crater-size potholes on County Road C near my house in Maplewood."

"Caution: Peeps at Work Filling Peepholes" by Sarah Wright of St. Paul: "My inspiration was all the potholes around town. Studied up on safety vests, hard hats and steam rollers. Finding a pothole that was in a safe place to use was a bit tricky. In the end the wind blowing pieces away was a problem. Thanks to my sister Alice. who helped with the final set up and took the best shot."

"Peeps Holes Repairs" by Anita Nelson (and granddaughter, Alexandra) of St. Paul. "My granddaughter and I could not find a safe place to set this up because of traffic, so we had to use a parking lot off West 7th," Nelson writes.

"If you have driven a car lately, you have likely hit a 'peep-hole' or two!" writes Rachel Rancour of Maplewood. "This diorama is inspired by the many 'peep-holes' in Minnesota and the recent picture of a pothole exposing an old street car track in St. Paul. I used a shingle to recreate the life like asphalt conditions of a street for this diorama."

"Peeps and Potholes" by Marilyn Brandt of Hugo and Murray Gardner of St. Paul Park: "Our inspiration for the design came from driving around the city of St. Paul, dodging potholes, but especially from reading Joe Soucheray’s column (about potholes) in last Sunday’s newspaper, which was excellent."

"Peeps and Potholes" by Marilyn Brandt of Hugo and Murray Gardner of St. Paul Park.

"Dutton Ranch" by Julie Quinn Kiernan of Roseville and Rose Johnson of Shoreview. They wrote: "Inspired by the real Dutton Ranch in the series, 'Yellowstone,' these Peeps are involved in various ranch 'chores.' Some are ready to ride out and herd the cattle; some are practicing their roping skills; one particular Peep is reclining in the outdoor trough, as she is known to do. Several on the right are taking place in a time-honored 'branding tradition' at the ranch."

"I chose to replicate the 17th hole at Sawgrass, home of the PGA Players Championship," writes Wally Anderson. "The 'balls' in the water and elsewhere are micro-mini marshmallows. My grandkids wanted the LEGO turtles on the island; they also wanted to put LEGO sharks in the water (No). They can't wait to play with it."

"Only Room In This Sky For One Peeper" by Jill Schaefer of Minnetonka of her take on the China balloon. She writes: "Inspired by recent news events, this Peep springs into action to take down its peeping competition, carefully ensuring no peep chicks were harmed during the maneuver."

"Mystery Solved! It was the 2023 Peeping Tour of America!" by Cynthia Kleist of Shoreview. "The Peeps on the weather balloon are using magnifying glasses to examine America. The Peeps on the ground are using a variety of items, including binoculars, telescope, periscope, camera and a butterfly net."

Peeples Republic Spy Balloon by Amy McCaffrey and Becky Tidswell of Woodbury.

Vickie and Kathleen Devine of Wyoming: "Entering the Peeps contest was on our bucket list lol! We picked the spy balloon topic because it was apolitical, but also fun because of wordplay like 'Peeps vs Peepers.'We had a lot of trouble getting the plane in the picture, we tried hanging it by thread but that was a fail, ha! We had so much fun making their accessories!"

Made by the O'Quinn family of Shoreview: Spencer, Jennifer, Aubrey, Brooke and Clarie and Ben Clysdale of Mahtomedi: "For our 2023 entry we present ... 'AVAPEEP: The Way of Mallow,' a play on 'AVATAR: The Way of Water!' We were inspired by movies and the return to watch them in actual movie theaters after COVID. We had fun creating a water scene with our Avapeeps. We used a loofah, shredded paper and small wood planks for our peeps to float on (anchored by golf tees, hot glued on the bottom which were stuck into our styrofoam base). Our creation was pretty straightforward. We did have to get creative when braiding the Avapeeps' hair and applying jewels to their sugared faces. We had considered 'Top Peep' but couldn't figure out how to get Peeps into fighter jets."

"Fistful of Peeps" by Sharon Kasper of West Hollywood, California: "I've had this idea for a few years, but always thought of it after the deadline. This year, I made the effort to get everything together, realizing that I could do it with some everyday things I already have. I decided on molding chocolate for the hat and boots and background items (window frame, porch beams). I used pieces from a holiday gingerbread house kit made of particle foam. The ground is made up of brown sugar, and the sky is a collage of all the blue paper I could find (mailers, wrappers), with some glued-on cotton for clouds. It's all set up in an Amazon cardboard box. Then I framed the whole shot with an old pair of black boots, and lit it with my desk lamps. I thought the distinctive low-angle Leonesque framing would be instantly recognizable. I added a little bit of forced perspective to give the impression of a much bigger space than what I was working with."

The making of "Fistful of Peeps." Sharon Kasper writes: "I framed the whole shot with an old pair of black boots and lit it with my desk lamps."

"I was inspired to create 'Welcome to Ginger-Peeps Land' because I love the holidays and I especially love Christmas," Doris McLaughlin of New Jersey writes in her entry submission. "It brings back all the memories and the good times I share with my grandchildren baking goodies and enjoying the holiday spirit with family. I used poster board to create the three different levels. That was a challenge since I had to make sure all measurements matched correctly. Then I covered it with vinyl, decorated it with the gingerbread Peeps and snowmen for snow on the roof. Each window gives you a peek inside of the house to give it life. And finally, as you can see, I added many embellishments to give it the perfect touch."

"Just Another Minnesota Winter" by Kathy Rehbein of Woodbury: "This is my first Peeps entry. I’ve thought about doing one for years and finally accomplished it! My inspiration was our long snowy Minnesota winter. Very fun project."

"I was creating this around St. Patrick’s Day and it made me think about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow -- and realized the pot of gold could be Peeps," writes Cheryl Kienietz-Hall of White Bear Lake.

"I can't think of a more magical experience than seeing the northern lights up north!" writes Kate Suchomel of Minneapolis. "This Peep was hiking at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park (one of my family's favorite state parks) and was lucky enough to catch this incredible light show!" 2023 entry.

The staff of the Guernsey County District Public Library -- Downtown Branch of Cambridge, Ohio: "Take a look into the drawing room of Lady Penelopeep P. Peeperton as she and her guests enjoy a dramatic reading by the famous author Charles Dickens."

This Dickens-themed diorama was a group effort by the staff of the Guernsey County District Public Library -- Downtown Branch of Cambridge, Ohio: "The tiny books were made by taking an old paperback book and miniature copies of Dickens' book covers. Depending on the width of the miniature, we cut down a few pages (with the spine still intact), folded and glued the new cover to the spine."

"Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Peep" by Ava Doody, 13, of St. Paul

Honorable mention: "Frankenpeep" by Finn Goodin-Miller, Martin Miller, and Kim Goodin of St. Paul. Goodin writes: "I found a large Peep on a stick with wonky eyes, and we used that as the starting point for our diorama. We mostly used bits and bobs we had around the house, and a trip to Ax-Man Surplus provided additional parts we didn’t even know we needed. This was a super fun family project, and I’m already thinking about next year!"

The Davidson family (Lars and Kate and Eleanora, 8, and Torsten, 5): "Our Peep entry is titled: 'Taylor Peep 2023.' We are so excited to see her in concert this summer in Minnesota -- as are lots and lots of others! We used cardboard, felt, glitter paper, clay and markers to create the epic 'Taylor Peep 2023' concert scene."

"Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Peep" by Ava Doody, 13, of St. Paul: "This is a model of Kokiri Forest from the 'Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.' If you are a Zelda fan then you will notice some little Easter eggs I've hidden around such as Saria's ocarina at Link's house and you can see Fado offering you a rupee. I used Peep candy instead of classic marshmallow Peeps because the scale was better for the model. For the water, I used Peep cotton candy with Peep gummies."

Aerial view of "Spring Peep-ers" by mom-and-son team of Kristen McBrien and Eddie McBrien, age 12, of Rosemount.

"Peeps Award Show presented by ChatGPT" by Julianne Prekaski: "ChatGPT provides us the winners of which Peep is the most popular, which US state consumes the most Peeps, and exciting new Peep flavors."

"We are excited to submit our entry ... 'Spring Peep-ers” which was created by Kristen and Eddie McBrien (mom and son, age 12, of Rosemount). We included Peep flowers, butterflies, a bee, birds, frogs and a few radishes, with their little green tops popping up … all things spring!"

"Peeps On Safari" by Peggy Lin, Andy Goldman-Gray, Heidi Mastrud and Maddie Gray. For their entry, they write: "Peggy, Andy, and Heidi went on safari to Tanzania in 2016. We saw many splendors, including giraffes, elephants, hippos, monkeys, wildebeests and more. We rode around in a Jeep on roads and through the backcountry (which actually feels pretty similar to St. Paul streets in late March 2023). We had an amazing time and wanted to recreate it in Peeps. Look closely at the guide Peeps with their field hats and binoculars, and the Peeps Safari logo on the jeep. The poor Peeps chicks that are swimming in the watering hole are fair game for alligators and leopards. One wild Peep is swinging in the overhead canopy. There is one animal that doesn't belong -- can you spot it? Thank you for the chance to enter this wonderful contest!"

"Snow Days 2023" by Heidi Knegendorf of River Falls, Wis.: "Here in River Falls, we have had so many snow/ice days that the kids will be going to school till 4th of july! Ha. Here the Peeps are frolicking in the historic 2023 snowfall. Oh, no -- two Peeps have slipped on the ice. Peeps down!!"

"I have loved everything Peeps my entire life!" writes Linda Ikhaml. "After this long, hard winter, I felt a summer theme would be fun to do and would be enjoyable to view!"

"Peeps Up Norte (aka Peepalism?)" by Susan Baugus of White Bear Lake and Erin Simle of St. Paul: "My inspiration this year comes from the little red outdoor chairs. I got them around Christmas time, so they had a different purpose at the time. The trailer is one of our birdhouses. I drew a door on the back. We tried to create an outdoor camping Minnesota vacation including roasting marshmallows, which comes with its own ethical question."

"Peeps Day at the Beach" by Susan Baugus of White Bear Lake: "When it’s Peeps season, spring and summer are close behind. "

"Everything Everywhere All at Once, the Multiverse Where We Are All Peeps" by Rebecca Tangalos, who grew up in Minnesota and currently lives in Austin, Texas.

"Everything, Everywhere, All At Once" by Sue Shumate of Burke, Virginia. Shumate writes: "The official poster is brilliantly designed with many tiny pieces of the movie woven into it; a 'Find Waldo'-like theme. With this inspiration, I spent time looking at every detail and trying to create it as closely as possible, while not being exact."

Side two of the Peep version of the movie poster for "Everything Everywhere All At Once" by Sue Shumate, 2023 entry. She writes: "I made this to look like posters using the wooden frames from canvases painters use. I just removed the canvas."

"Peeps Do Spring Break at Orange Beach 2023" by Meredith Dahlman, 6, Claire Dahlman, 3, and Boppy Frank, 67, of Roseville.

"Long, dark and cold nights -- when the Wild games aren't on TV -- caused the people in our house to watch the popular HBO series, 'The White Lotus,'" writes Carol Wiessner. "As long as my Peeps were in a tropical climate, one opted for her own version of a White Lotus day spa treatment."

Created by Ethan Melby, age 8, and his father, Brandon Melby.

"Our Peeps are representing the Addams family: Gomez, Morticia, Cousin It, Grandma, Wednesday, Puggsley, Lurch and Uncle Fester. We tried to bring out each character's most distinctive features with yarn, felt, hot glue and Sharpie. The living room shown on their TV show had so much going on that we just picked a few elements: elephant foot-stool, polar bear rug, mounted swordfish, suit of armor and two-headed tortoise." -- Nancy, Lydia, Caleb and Jael Stegner

"St. Mary's County Peeps" by Yvonne Patton of Maryland. "I wanted to do something that's specifically unique about my area. Trying to create our 'Blue Crabs' and Wicomico River Oysters was a bit of a challenge, but I'm pretty tickled with how they turned out! I must have changed my mind on the miniatures at least 15 times, but with some advice from my hubby, I think it's the best our area can provide! Everything here is original and found around the house (I even found the cork and oyster shells at the river); the lemon slice is a thread spool, the backing of it is plastic wrap. The funnest part was making the poles with realistic sea gull droppings!"

"The family loves watching the Mandolorian together and the children wanted me to participate," wrirtes Japs Lee, whose children entered the Little Peeple category. "Who can’t resist 'The Child'!"

"Here's my first-ever Peeps creation: 'Central Park Peeps,'" writes Kris Cummings. "Chess playing, music playing, reading 'Little Boo Peep' to little ones, walking, family of ducks Peeps enjoying Central Park in a Carnegie Deli cheesecake box. Fun to do while caring for husband recovering from surgery and son on high school spring break."

"I was inspired by the TV series, 'Heartstopper,'" writes Sarah Duzynski. " I created a scene from the 'Boyfriend' episode, where Nick and Charlie go on their first date to the beach."

"These are my ' Peepatars: The Way of the Peeps,'" writes Pattie Weiss. "Inspired by the delicious blue color Peeps" (and the movie, "Avatar: The Way of Water").

In this diorama, Peeps act out a scene from "Peeperton" ("Bridgerton"). "I was inspired by the TV series and loved all of the ball gowns and balls," writes Midge Mc Dermott of Waukesha Wis. "The characters are very colorful." 2023 entry.

"Where’s Peepo?” by Julia Trudeau, Anna Rexiesen and Hannah Trudeau of Mendota Heights: "The circus tent scene is complete with curtains, a flag, banners and a spotlight. Inside are two stands full of Peeps, with Waldo peep, or 'Peepo,' hiding in one of them. On the stage, there is a ringmaster, a seal with a ball, a lion, a trapese artist and a bearded lady."

"I work in a nursing home and building a Peeps diorama was an idea to engage our residents and give them something fun to vote on," writes Maddie Gates. "Everything -- aside from the Peeps -- was crafted by me; my personal favorite part is the dad's mustache!"

"Bingo" by Maddie Gates, one of the Peeps dioramas she created for nursing home residents to vote on.

"I present to you, the Peep Fire Department ... 'Saving Our Peeps!'" writes Jodi Halweg of Wyoming.

"Our Peep Children Working in an Unsafe Workplace" by Cheryl Kienietz-Hall of White Bear Lake (second entry). "I’m troubled by children having to work in hazardous environments with dangerous chemicals. Children shouldn’t have to work in places like that."

"While My Guitar Gently PEEPS" by Sharon Aaseng.

"Still in a 60's frame of mind," writes Ursula Krawczyk of St. Paul.

Here is our first entry for the 2023 Pioneer Press Peeps Diorama Contest: "Candy Warhol" by Darcie Muckler of Milwaukee, Wis.

"Peeps Planet Pageant – All Peeps Are Beautiful" by Suzie Sims-Fletcher: "Peeps Planet Pageant contestants are unique in color and flavor: Watermelon, Tropical, Pudding and Dr. Pepper, etc. Some are chicks, some are bunnies. Some are crunchy, some squishy. Some have one eye, two eyes and even three eyes. Since 2004, I have been involved in a pageant that, in fact, welcomes all people: anyone may enter. My diorama reflects this acceptance in its PEEPy sugary goodness. Each participant was given its own couture look. As a costumer in my fun time, these little treats were fun to imagine, but took hours and hours of fabric matching, jewel obtaining and, of course, endless fittings. The tiny work was, at times, pretty fiddly. The Peeps, however, were truly professional and hardly made sound, a peep, if you will, while under the heat of a glue gun or anticipating the potential jab of a needle (needles are VERY BIG to a Peep). After every sequin was in place, each posed for individual and group fashion photos."

"I'm a 71-year-old grandma who lives in Houston, Penn.," writes Darlene Taylor. "My granddaughter was excited on making her own and thought that I should participate also. She came to my home with a children's book and raspberry Peeps for me to start to work! The book is 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears' by Caralyn Buchner and Mark Buchner. I can't lie, I had a blast making it. I decided to see if I could make it without purchasing anything beside the Peeps. I cut an extra Peep up to add to Papa and Mama bear so that they would be different sizes. Wow, are they sticky ... I glued felt to make the pants, wire to make glasses and curly ribbon for Goldilocks' hair. I made a teddy bear from fuzzy brown pom pom craft balls and added a design to the burlap rug. The mattresses are made from little cardboard jewelry gift boxes and the beds and table are made of clothespins and popsicle sticks. I drew the pictures for the wall and made frames from sticks. The lamp is a plastic bottle cap attached to a wire for the stand. When I thought I was done, my 6-year-old granddaughter noticed the jump rope from the story was missing, so I had to make one. Goldilocks has the rope in bed with her and when they pull on it she wakes up and runs from the house. Thanks for all the fun we had in making them."

Papa and Mama bear in 'Goldilocks' by Darlene Taylor of Houston, Penn.

Created by Ava Stahl: "Inspired by the Beatles movie, 'Yellow Submarine.' Each yellow bunny represents Paul, Ringo, George and John. The blue chicks represent the Blue Meanies. The pink bunny is the Captain. The most challenging part was creating the costumes (made from marzipan and food coloring -- very sticky!). The Blue Meanies ears were the most difficult to create."

A closeup of Ava Stahl's diorama featuring the Beatles and Blue Meanies.:"Can you name the band members?" Stahl writes. "Can you spot all five Blue Meanies in the diorama? Have fun and enjoy!"

"Arbor Peeps Green Up the Town" by Richard Gjertson, Sandy Tanck, Allie Quinn and Daniel Gjertson.

A group of Peeps knit ideas for a new state flag for Minnesota by the RiverKnitters of Stillwater.

"Village Peeple" by Emily Walshe: "The Lenten season always brings a perennial cleaning of the closets. Biker Peep’s vest is cut from the tongue of an old patent leather shoe; Chief’s headdress from a worn-out feather duster; Construction Peep’s hardhat is an inverted contact lens case. The biggest challenge was yellow sugar on the dance floor. And for inspiration, a mood-boosting, groovy playlist on repeat."

Honorable mention: This Dickens-themed diorama was a group effort by the staff of the Guernsey County District Public Library -- Downtown Branch of Cambridge, Ohio: "Two of us were responsible for set building, interior design, signage and creating miniatures. One of us had the responsibility of costuming, editing and overall handy 'lady.' The others helped where and when needed. All types of materials were used, including desk organizers (bookshelves) and picture frame box (fireplace); buttons (clock, table, fireplace decorations); old books (miniature books); beads, curtain hooks, wire and paper (sconces, chandelier); mini battery operated lights (for chandelier); ribbon, straight pins, wire, material and embellishments (clothes, ties, jewelry), mini spools (hats), sip straw and pearl bead (walking stick); and most important – PEEPS."

A Dickens-themed diorama by the staff of the Guernsey County District Public Library -- Downtown Branch of Cambridge, Ohio: "Staff kept eating the baby Peeps (gummies), trying to paint the bust of Lord Percival Eugene Edward Peeperton IV (Peeps do not like to be painted), Oh, no EARTHQUAKE (who bumped the box?); hot glue (ouch) and pins (double ouch – especially when you keep forgetting that the pin is longer than the Peep)."

"Peeps & Grow Garden: Just Born" by Laurie and Carl Hansen of St. Louis Park: "When we were growing up, every spring the Easter Bunny would bring us Punch ’N Grow seed starter kits. We thought it would be fun to recreate our childhood memories by making a 'Peeps & Grow Garden: Just Born.' Everything is edible (including how we attached the flower petals), except for the carton, which is compostable. Peeps Ahoy!"

"Musee de Peeps" by Natalie Nutting.

"This Peeps diorama is titled 'Renaissance Peeps' and is a scene from a Renaissance Festival. Every Peep is having fun shopping and watching jousting along with the King and Queen of the festival. This diorama was made by Sarah Burgess, 51, and daughters Samantha Burgess, 17, and Bridget Burgess, 14, from Annapolis, Maryland."Thanks! Sarah Burgess

"Harry Peeper and the Chamber of Secrets" by Amanda Baker (with help from Jodie Kennedy) on behalf of the Guernsey County Public Library Crossroads Branch in Cambridge, Ohio: "We were inspired by a diorama contest between branches for our Easter Family Fun Day based on a book theme. It had to include characters made from Peeps products and other confectionery."

"Harry Peeper and the Chamber of Secrets" by Amanda Baker (with help from Jodie Kennedy) on behalf of the Guernsey County Public Library Crossroads Branch in Cambridge, Ohio.

'Stranger Peeps Have Happened" by Erin Arntson of Minneapolis: "Strange things are happening in Peepsville, and a ragtag crew of local teens is getting to the bottom of it. Thank goodness for Eleven's powers and Dustin's walkie, or this gang of peeps just might end up in the clutches of the Flaming Hot Tamale Peep Monster!"

"Shootout at the Peeps Corral" by Kim Verbrugge.

'Stranger Peeps Have Happened" by Erin Arntson of Minneapolis.

'Stranger Peeps Have Happened" by Erin Arntson of Minneapolis: When the idea of creating the beloved Stranger Things characters as peeps popped into my mind, I had to give it a shot. I started putting some yarn on the walls of the box and it snowballed from there! I will say, sculpting with Peeps was a quite a tricky medium, so that was an adventure!"

"The title of my submission is 'Land of 10,000 Peepholes' based on my home of Minnesota the land of 10,000 lakes!" writes Debra Bakken.

“Phantom of the Peeps Opera” by Sheridan McKenna of Fruit Cove, Florida: "The new children’s librarian at our local library offered a Peeps diorama contest this spring for the first time, open to every age group, including seniors like me! For two and a half hectic weeks, it was great fun to set aside cooking and cleaning and instead to imagine, plan, collect doodads, then paint and assemble set pieces and costumed characters for one of our family’s favorite musicals. I discovered that trying to get a decent and well-lit photograph of the project was more difficult than making the project."

“Phantom of the Peeps Opera” by Sheridan McKenna of Fruit Cove, Florida.

"I am 52 and watched 'Friends' back when it was on," writes Heather Hund. "Our 12-year-old has been watching it with me since she was in first grade. She knows all the lines better than I do! I am taking her for her 13th birthday to the pop up 'Friends'' experience (the one near Philly)."

"Friends" by Heather Hund: "I have always loved to do all kinds of crafts my whole life. This diorama took me a week to do. I crammed a lot of hours on it in one week too! I didn’t want to pay a lot for the trees, so I made them from wooden dowels, paint and moss. The fountain was tough! I used an air-dry clay and it fell apart working with it. I trashed that. I had to use a baking clay to be able to handle it without crumbling. The hardest parts were how to make the building LOOK like the set does. Also, how to run one light of fairy lights from the building all the way to end at the lamp by the couch. The couch was made of foam board and fabric. NOT EASY. The grass was actually a placemat for Easter table settings! Placing little ducks around was fun."

"My name is Tommy Cummings, I'm 15 years old. This is my first time making a peep diorama. I love theater and have been in a theater play before, which was my inspiration for my diorama. I call it: Peep Play P-Travesty!!"

"My Peep diorama was inspired by my favorite binge show, 'Only Murders in the Building,'" writes Laura Dill of Wakefield, Mass. "It is based off the poster of the show and I couldn't forget the lady walking the dog during the opening credits. I hope everyone enjoys it."

"The Peep Stop" by Charla Burke.

"Glengarry Glen Peep" by Clare Kennedy of Richfield.

"Early Peephood Family Education" by Stacy Kaditus of St. Paul: "Shout out to the St Paul ECFE staff for being so good to the littlest Peeps among us! "

"The Red Hot Chili Peeps are sailing into the Bank Stadium a little early," writes Amy Gutzmann of Bloomington. "They caught a ride on the Viking’s longhorn ship to do a little bit of sightseeing before their gig on April 8th."

"Inspiration for the diorama came from the music and artistry of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and my love for Peeps," writes Amy Gutzmann of Bloomington.

"I may have gone a little overboard this year with adding some body art to commemorate this fun contest and these rock stars," writes Amy Gutzmann of Bloomington. "I hope Anthony, John, Fle, and Chad like it. It puts a smile on my face."

"Peeps!" by Maia Monette.

"We The Peeps: The Signing of the Constitution" by Riley Pitchford, 14, of Lake Zurich, Ill.: "In this diorama, a janitor is changing the Constitution to read, 'We the Peeps.' The founding fathers are signing the Constitution. My near disaster is that I nearly didn’t finish!"

"Rapunzel Peep" by Cecelia Frost, 14, of Hudson, Wis.

By Matthew and Angela Maida of Pine City: "A Peep at nature. The jackalopes greet the song birds of spring."

"Fairy Peep Garden Party" by Kathy Coco, 71, of Asheville, N.C.: "Our Mountain State Fair is held every year here in Asheville and I’ve entered shoeboxes on a variety of different topics every year so I thought it would be fun to try it out with the Peeps. I started with them right out of the packaging and realized it’s better to let them sit out for a while; it’s easier to work with them when they are harder."

"The Last of Us Peeps" by Kate Wiecher of Bloomington: "This is based on episode five from 'The Last of Us.' I thoroughly enjoyed watching the show, so I thought it'd be fun to make a Peeps diorama of it. I built all the buildings out of things I had (cardboard, cardstock, paint, etc.) and decorated the Peeps to look as if they were infected."

"The Last of Us Peeps" by Kate Wiecher of Bloomington.

"The Last of Us Peeps" by Kate Wiecher of Bloomington

"Peeping Beauty" by Jane Beatty, plus Joe, Hope, Claire and Rita: "Our inspiration was Prince Peep Charming, who is played by a Peep who also starred in an entry last year -- he was one of the confirmands in 'Peeps Confirmation at the Saint Paul Cathedral' -- we want to see how long he sticks around without decomposing. He looks almost the same as last year ... just more crusty. By the looks of things, he will be back in a diorama entry next year, too! We found green Peeps for Maleficent -- and we had fun making the tiny spinning wheel out of cardboard and toothpicks. Our big plan to install an LED light in the chandelier above Sleeping Beauty's bed fell through at the last minute because the light with the battery wouldn't stay hidden inside the plastic egg shell inside the paper encasement."

"Evelyn Schomburg, 11 years old, created this Peeps diorama with her dad. It is a Peeps version of a scene from her favorite book, 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.' Harry Potter is working things out with Tom Riddle while Ginny just lays around doing nothing. We created the background rocks with styrofoam and paint and Evelyn created a one of a kind Basilisk out of Sour Watermelon Peeps. The Basilisk even features a novel use of almond slivers for teeth."

"Soccer Peeps" by Ella and Jill, students in the marketing class of Calista Mis of Iroquois High School in Elma, N.Y.

"WNBA Peeps" by Jenna, Anna and Natalie, students in the marketing class of Calista Mis of Iroquois High School in Elma, N.Y.

"Pot of Peeps" by Charlie, students in the marketing class of Calista Mis of Iroquois High School in Elma, N.Y.

"Bills Mafia Peeps" by John, Sam and Rhys, students in the marketing class of Calista Mis of Iroquois High School in Elma, N.Y.

"Whiplash Peeps" by Seth, students in the marketing class of Calista Mis of Iroquois High School in Elma, N.Y.

"Take Me Out to the Ball Game Peep" by Trevor, students in the marketing class of Calista Mis of Iroquois High School in Elma, N.Y.

"Pirate Peep" by Kris, students in the marketing class of Calista Mis of Iroquois High School in Elma, N.Y.

Update: The deadline for submissions for the 2023 Pioneer Press Peeps Diorama Contest has now passed. Watch for winners in the newspaper on Easter (Sunday, April 9).

In the meantime, take a look at many of this year’s entries in our general and “Little Peeple” slideshows.

Thanks to all who entered!

Easter is on April 9, which means stores are stocked up on holiday candy.

You know what that means: It’s time to add a pack of Peeps to your shopping cart so you can enter the annual Pioneer Press Peeps Diorama Contest.

To enter, make a diorama of any size featuring marshmallow Peeps. The theme is wide open, as is our tradition — anything from current affairs to historical events, daily life, celebrities, religion, art or sports, movies or books … but the judges prefer family-friendly entries.

Ultimately, it’s your creativity we want to showcase, as we’ve done since 2004. Some people create their scenes in shoeboxes, but you don’t have to do so.

When your marshmallow masterpiece is complete, take a photo of the diorama and email it to [email protected].

In your email, please be sure to include the name, phone and email address of the creator or creators — in addition to their city of residence — so that we may contact them if needed. If the creator is 12 or younger, make sure you tell us in order to be eligible for the youth prize (and include an adult’s name and contact info).

"Hello, my name is Olivia Noland, I am 12 years old, and my diorama is a 'peeployment.' The peeployment represents my dad and his airlift squadron that recently deployed. He flies with the 96th Airlift Squadron in Minneapolis, and this is his 10th deployment. The blue Peeps represent the airmen, the red Peeps represent the mechanics and the purple and pink Peeps represent the 'peeples' that are a part of the airmen's families. The squadron flies cargo planes called C130 Hercules and provides support to military personnel all over the world. My grandma bought the supplies and the Peeps for this project. I used my brother's C-130 toy plane and made little Peep hats. I also made a runway and the sky from craft paper and a tri-fold board." (Olivia's grandma, Rebecca Noland, tells us that the 96th Airlift Squadron is part of the 934th Airlift Wing, an Air Force Reserve C-130 unit based at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Air Reserve Station.)

Olivia Noland, 12, working on her diorama for the Little Peeple category of the 2023 Pioneer Press Peeps Diorama Contest.

"This diorama was done by Colton Lawrence, age 8; Jackson Lawrence, age 6; and Cooper Lawrence, age 4 of Burnsville, with guidance (hot glue gun mostly) from their grandparents, Jacqui and Dave Meany," writes Jacqui Meany. "We chose 'Snowmageddon' as a theme due to our record-breaking snow this year, and because the boys love playing in the snow and helping their mom and dad shovel."

The Lawrence brothers with their 'Snowmageddon' diorama. (Courtesy photo)

Honorable mention: "An Outdoor Movie Date" by Kinley Braun, age 10, of Eagan: "Inspired by the backyard movie nights we host in the summer."

Honorable mention: "My son, Gilbert Gutzmann (6 years old), had fun making his Crystal Cave for the peeps to explore," writes Amy Gutzmann of Bloomington. "It entails some stalagmites, stalactites, and a secret gorge that the peeps can use as an escape route 'from giant lizards' as needed. Inspiration came from the packaging material that my new Instapot came in. We haven’t used the Instapot yet, but have thoroughly enjoyed the cardboard that it came in. Thanks for hosting the contest again! It’s turning into a family spring tradition over here. We look forward to seeing all the other entries!"

“Super-Peep vs. Peep-a-Tron” by Owen Frank, age 8. Honorable mention.

"Peeps at the Duck Pond" by Carolann Akervik, age 3, of Cottage Grove: "Carolann loves visiting the duck pond behind her house, so she created this Peeps diorama of her duck pond for the Pioneer Press Little Peeple Diorama Contest. Carolann can’t wait for all the snow to melt and the ducks to return so she can feed them. She used magazines, glue and toilet paper rolls to create the background, then Play-Doh for the pond and orange Play-Doh worms. She collected twigs and rocks from her yard for the trees, bushes and sticks in the water. She had some help from her mom with cutting and gluing. Her favorite part of her duck pond diorama is the pipe cleaner sun “that warms up the ducks.” Her Peeps are visiting the pond and feeding the ducks on a sunny summer day."

"Peeps at the Duck Pond" by Carolann Akervik, age 3, of Cottage Grove.

"The Resurrection" by Suzy Nelson, 11, and Willmo Johnson, 11, of St. Paul: "It was so hard to get the lighting just right! We really had to persevere and ask for guidance from above. We didn't want to mess up this great day in history with our clumsiness. "

"Le Peepa Salon" by Olivia Frank, age 10.

Children playing in "The Secret Garden" by Lizzy, 12.

Lizzy, 12: "This diorama is from the book, 'The Secret Garden.' I made the garden when the three children were playing and the gardener was working on bringing it back to life, the walls for the garden were the hardest to make. I hope you like the garden!"

Honorable mention: "Met Gala Peeps" by Dottie McCall, 11, of St. Paul: "I was inspired by watching the show, 'Next in Fashion' on Netflix. I liked Gigi Hadid's, Blake Lively and Kim Kardashian's dresses. I wanted to make sure to include the photographers, the hedges and the stairs. I used felt and glitter for the dresses and artificial rosemary to construct the bushes. Then I made tuxes for the photographers out of felt and perler beads for the cameras. I used styrofoam for the stairs and then painted them blue. I also added red felt for the carpet. I burned myself with the hot glue once and ate too many Peeps. The camera guys were the hardest to glue to the sides of the bushes. It took me a really long time to finish!"

“Peeps Royal Ballet School” by Abigail Mewis, age 12, "is inspired by her ballet studio. Ms. Squish is in the back of the class working through new combinations. Abby utilized construction paper, Girl Scouts cookie box, popsicle sticks, construction paper, classic artwork by Edgar Degas and a recycled/cut old mirror. Enjoy the ballet!"

“The Adventures of Captain UnderPEEPs!” by Alistair Warr, age 12: "The scene is based on one of my favorite books, 'Captain Underpants,'" Alistair writes. "It has George and Harold, the two troublemakers.They changed the school sign from 'Sewage Plant Field Trips are Today' to 'Come See My Hairy Armpits.' The Turbo Toilet 2000 and Professor PoopPEEPpants in his robot are seen in the background. Captain UnderPEEPs is standing on top of a building. I used felt, construction paper, clay, tape and, of course, PEEPS in my diorama."

Honorable mention: "The Wizard of Oz" by Evelyn Grittner, 9 (left), and Madeleine Griffin, 10, both of Minneapolis.

"Super Bowl Peeps of Halftime" featuring Rihanna by Natalie L'Allier, age 11, Hastings, Little Peeple entry.

Honorable mention: "The Wizard of Oz" by Evelyn Grittner, 9, and Madeleine Griffin, 10, both of Minneapolis: "As you can see Toto didn’t turn out how we hoped, Madeleine started glueing string on him then we drew on him. Toto was a near disaster or even a disaster, but the lion has to be the cutest! I mean look at him awww. The top of the trees is left over moss. The monkeys and witch are flying because of strong wire."

"The Wizard of Oz" by Evelyn Grittner, 9, and Madeleine Griffin, 10, both of Minneapolis.

"Class Is In Session' Peeps by Cleo Clementine Hirtz, 10, of Rosemount: "This is a kindergarten class doing in-person learning with a classroom motto of 'Treat others kindly' and 'work hard.' I started this project with my deaf and hard of hearing teacher, Mrs. Dreher, at my school, Shannon Park Elementary, and I finished it at home over spring break. I used Peeps, other Easter candy, paper, markers, glue, cardboard, felt, toothpicks and clay. Some of my classmates and family who helped me: Georgia Belise, Raelynn Tilson, Grace Hansen and my little sister, Coco Hirtz."

"Class Is In Session' Peeps by Cleo Clementine Hirtz, 10, of Rosemount.

"Milo's Peep-aria" by Milo Koebele, age 7, of Minneapolis. "Milo LOVES pizza," writes his mom, Kate Suchomel, "so what is better than a Peep-themed pizza place?" 2023 Little Peeps entry.

"Lord of the Peeps" by River Driscoll, age 6; Willow Driscoll, age 10; and Mickie Grubbs, age 44.

"Jurassic Peeps" by Sloane Mumford, 10, of St. Paul. Sloane drew on her love of "Jurassic Park" as inspiration for her diorama: "I was inspired by the terrifying dinosaurs (especially T-Rex) in the 'Jurassic Park'/'Jurassic Park World' and wondered what it would look like if the Dino King devoured some Peeps!!!!"

"Jurassic Peeps" by Sloane Mumford, 10, of St. Paul.

"Hide and Peep" by Evan Harnden, age 8, of Lake Elmo: "Evan loves playing outside and climbing trees," Shannon Harnden writes. "Currently, he enjoys dodging and hiding from snowballs thrown by family and friends."

Ramona Dalbotten, age 11, of St. Paul: "One of my favorite summer things to do is go to the state fair and I love eating food so much so I decided to make my peeps eating all my favorite foods at 'The Great Minnesota Peep-together!' I hope you like my project!"

"PeepDay at Normandy" by Parker Oanes, age 10, of White Bear Lake (with supplies provided by Grandma Gloria Oanes of Roberts, Wis.). The inspiration, design and build comes from Parker’s interest in learning about wars in general and more specifically World War I and II. Parker writes: "On June 6, 1944, the Allied Powers launched the biggest naval landing in history, consisting of 150,000 men landing on five beaches. The United States were to storm two of the beaches. The beaches were Omaha and Utah. Omaha was the hardest beach; as soon as the landing craft opened, rows of men were shot. At the end of the day, the beach was captured."

"Firepeeps to the Rescue!" by Lucy Harnden, age 5, of Lake Elmo: "Lucy has been all about firefighters for the last 1.5 yrs, ever since the Oakdale Fire Department visited her school," writes Shannon Harnden. "She has taught everyone about fire safety and has her younger brother in training."

“Peep and Boots: The Last Wish" by Norah Letcher, age 8. Norah was inspired by the last movie she watched in a theater, "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish." She couldn’t find the Peeps in gray or orange so she painted the wild berry Peeps to the color she wanted. She also used yellow Peeps to create the star in the movie.

"Jurassic Peep” by Jake Letcher, age 6. Jake was inspired to make Jurassic Peeps because he loves dinosaurs.

"The Great Snowball Fight of 2023" by Rowan Sparr, age 8 (with supplies purchased by Aunt Hannah at Target). "It all began when a blue Peep threw a snowball (a mini marshmallow) at a pink Peep. That very moment, THE BATTLE BEGAN!!! The chicks rooted for their favorite color team and structures were built." Of the diorama, Rowan says: "The project was hard, but we made a masterpiece!"

"The Great Snowball Fight of 2023" by Rowan Sparr, age 8.

"Spring for spring" backyard Peeps diorama by the Pettinelli kids (ages 11, 9, 7 and 5): "We decided to show what it's like at our yard in spring and summer. We called it 'spring for spring' because of the trampoline in the back corner of our diorama with a bunny jumping. We're excited to jump on ours when the snow melts! We also have Peep gardeners and a Peep picking up sticks because that's what we do in our yard. This was inspired by our excitement for spring!"

Peeps in Space, by Nicole Mollner of West Saint Paul, age 7. 2023 Little Peeps category.

"Justin Peeperson" by Oliver Koebele, age 9, Minneapolis. "Oliver loves the Vikings, Justin Jefferson and candy!" writes Kate Suchomel, Oliver's mom. "Here's Justin Peeperson doing the griddy after scoring another fantastic Vikings touchdown!"2023 Little Peeps entry.

File, left: Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson celebrates a touchdown (John Autey / Pioneer Press). Right: A Peep interpretation of Justin "Peeperson" by Oliver Koebele, 9, of Minneapolis, for the Little Peeps category of the 2023 Pioneer Press Peeps Diorama Contest.

"Snow Day" by 7-year-old McCartney Garber.

"Mount Peep Vesuvius" by Nicole, age 7.

Peeps hunting for eggs, a diorama by Amelia Severson, age 10.

"Egg Hunt" by Chloe Severson, age 10.

A Peeps entry by Dexter Severson, age 6.

An entry by Keats Severson, age 9.

"I love gymnastics; it’s my favorite sport," says Margaret L’Allier, age 8, of Hastings. Little Peeple entry.

Little Peeple entry by Linnea Maierhofer, age 8, St. Paul.

Little Peeple entry by Cora Maierhofer, age 4, St. Paul.

"Here is Lyla Plorin's submission for the diorama contest," writes Amy Keller. "Lyla is 12 years old. I'm her grandmother. She made this on her spring break from school on a snowy Monday. The inspiration is summer fun on a roller coaster! It was a fun project, only two Peeps made it in the design as I had forgotten how tasty Peeps are!" 2023 Little Peeps entry

"Peeps, Toys, Candy and More: The Greatest Store in the World" by Will and Sam Vogen, 9-year-old twins. 2023 Little Peeps category.

"The Peep Camping Trip" by Henry Buetow, age 10.

"Forest of Mysterious" by River Buetow, age 8.

"The Baseball Field" by Eleanor Buetow-Staples, age 8.

"Turtle Race" by Otto Buetow-Staples, age 6.

"Candyland" by Alaina, age 11.

"The Goonies" by Niko, age 9, of Eagan.

"This is my granddaughter Sadie Stockdale's diorama," writes Darlene Taylor. "She loves the pigeon books by Mo Willems. Sadie is 6 years old and is in kindergarten. The book is titled, 'Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!' Her mother, Halsey Stockdale, assisted with a hot glue gun and had to make sure that Sadie didn't eat all the extra Peeps before they were sure this one wouldn't dry up and fall off of its legs!! She really enjoyed making it and eventually finishing off the extras."

Honorable mention: "The Lorax" by Jillian Braun, age 8, of Eagan: "Inspired by my favorite book and movie. I even dressed up as the Lorax for school book character day!"

Honorable mention: "Hello my name is Josie Garza and I am eight years old. I would like to enter my Peeps diorama into the contest. My theme this year is, 'Peeps Gone Fishin.' Fishing is such a favorite pastime here in Minnesota and of course the Peeps would love to take part in this fun activity as well! My Peeps are fishing, having a picnic, and also basking in the sun."

"R Peep G" by Anna Fitzgerald of Mendota Heights, age 12 and a seventh grader. Anna's diorama features the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) in the courtroom.

"The theme of this Peeps diorama is Super Bowl LVII. It was designed and built by me, Tommy Faulken, age 11 (my grandma, Maggie Powers, purchased the Peeps). I chose this theme because I think that the Chiefs did an amazing job coming back in the 2nd half of the Super Bowl, and I also love watching football. I also wish that the Vikings got to the Super Bowl."

"A Visit from the Peepster Bunny" by Evelyn Sahli, age 12, of Cottage Grove.

Honorable mention: "Peeps for Peace" by Rose Peterson, 10, and Ariel Peterson, 13: "The girls enjoy spending a day at their grandmother's each year and working on their diorama."

"Candy Land" by Annette Sahli, age 8, of Cottage Grove.

"King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table" by Maria Frost, 12, of Hudson, Wis.

“Peeps Friday the 13th” by Michael Mewis, age 9: "inspired by the classic 1980s horror film. Mike utilized random tree twigs, leaves, block wood, a reused hinged black box, acrylic paint, cardboard and construction paper. Enjoy the scare!"

"Three Disney-loving sisters from Chesapeake, Virginia -- Annaliese, 12, Avonleigh, 8, and Addelynne, 4 -- created 'Peeps Celebrate Disney’s 100 Years of Wonder' as a tribute to Disney’s 100 Years of Wonder Celebration 1923-2023! They enjoyed designing Peep characters by highlighting the various Disney stories throughout their 100 years of magic. They included Peep characters such as Cinderella and Prince Charming, Snow White and some of her Dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and her three fairies, Belle and the Beast, and even the villain Ursula. TinkerBell can be seen flying high above Cinderella Castle just as she does each night at the fireworks show in Magic Kingdom. Peep spectators hold '100' balloons down Main Street in celebration, but the true question is … 'Are they Mickey ears or Peep ears?!?!'"

By Vivianna Schuroff-Kamara, age 12.

"Trinity Huntzicker is 3 years old," writes Linda Huntzicker. "She likes to play with her Paw Patrol toys that she got for Christmas. When asked if she would like to make a picture of Peeps for this contest she responded with 'How about Peeps Patrol.' Trinity loves playing with her mommy and daddy and creating fun projects that build on her interests. She put the colored Peeps in the toys of the same color as the toys."

Trinity Huntzicker, age 3, created a "Paw Patrol" scene with her Peeps.

Also, please tell us about your artistic process — inspiration, methods, near-disasters — so we can share your genius with the world.

The deadline to email photos of the diorama entries is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 31.

Winners will be chosen by a team of judges at the Pioneer Press.

We will feature the winning dioramas in the Easter Sunday edition of the Pioneer Press on April 9.

Questions? Email [email protected].

Also, for inspiration, we have created a series of slideshows of some of the past diorama winners and other standouts through the years.

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