The annual Table Decorating Contest has long been a highlight of Picnic with the Pops! Guests are encouraged to follow any fun and festive decorating motif that fits within the theme of the evening: “Back to the ‘80’s.”

To participate in the Table Decorating Contest, you must register by 6 p.m. at the Table Decorating Contest Tent, located to the left of the stage (note the new location for registration tent from years past!).

Tables will be judged on the following criteria:

• Connection to the theme of “Back to the ‘80’s”

• Originality

• Execution of Design

Tip: Be sure to make note of your table number before you cover it with decorations!

The following items are NOT permitted at your tables:

• Decorations that interfere with other guests’ views of the stage or ability to walk in the aisles, will not be allowed.

• Extra tents, canopies, or tables.

• Open flames, including candles (even in enclosures), fireworks, sparklers, etc.

• Balloons or helium-filled objects of any kind.

1st PLACE PRIZE, COURTESY OF PICNIC WITH THE POPS:

A table for 8 at the 2026 Picnic with the Pops.

2nd PLACE PRIZE, COURTESY OF THE LEXINGTON PHILHARMONIC:

8 passes to a Lexington Philharmonic concert of your choice.

3rd PLACE PRIZE, COURTESY OF LEXINGTON PARKS & REC:

8 golf passes, good for one round of golf at the course of your choosing: Kearney Hill Links, Lakeside Golf Course, Meadowbrook Golf Course, Gay Brewer Jr. Course at Picadome, Tates Creek Golf Course

Craft a classic cocktail inspired by the 1980s! Drinks are judged on taste, sight and name, so get creative!

To participate in the Cocktail Contest, you must register at the Cocktail Contest Tent, located to the left of the stage. To enter, please bring 3 samples of your drink (one for each of our 3 judges) to the Cocktail Contest Tent between 5:30-7 p.m. Note: while presentation is important, judges will only taste a small sample.

Cocktails will be judged on the following criteria:

• Taste

• Originality

• How well it ties into the theme of the evening

RULES:

• In order to keep the line moving, each entrant will have a 3-minute presentation limit.

• Please keep samples small

• Must provide 3 samples

1st PLACE PRIZE, COURTESY OF THE MANCHESTER HOTEL:

Overnight stay for 2 in and a chef’s dinner for up to 10 guests at The Manchester

2nd PLACE PRIZE, COURTESY OF TOTAL WINES:

A private wine class at Total Wine.

Summon your best version of a 1980s pop or rock star for our annual Costume Contest!

To participate in the Costume Contest, you must register between 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Costume Contest Tent, located to the left of the stage. Judges will photograph each contestant and refer to the photos during deliberation.

Costumes will be judged on the following criteria:

• Authenticity (actually reflects the period and image of the theme)

• Originality/Creativity (number of original elements – not costume-shop purchased)

• Detail/Execution (how well you “sell it” – attitude, posture, props, etc. count!)

A winner will be chosen in each of the following categories: Best Female Costume, Best Male Costume, Best Group Costume.

Rules:

• One entry per person/group

• Winners must be present at the event

• Must be a ticket purchaser to enter

• All “squishy” body parts must be covered

BEST MALE COSTUME PRIZE, COURTESY OF LEXINGTON PARKS & REC: 4 golf passes, good for one round of golf at city course of choice.

BEST FEMALE COSTUME, COURTESY OF KEENELAND: Keeneland Race Package (Outdoor Box Seats for 6)

BEST GROUP COSTUME, COURTESY OF LOCKBOX AT 21C MUSEUM HOTEL:

Dinner for 8 at Lockbox at 21c