AADL's 21st Annual LEGO Contest - Entry Drop-Off

Event Summary

Date(s): Sunday, August 2, 2026
Time: 9:00am-1:00pm
Venue: Sheraton Hotel
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Event Description

The 2026 Anual LEGO Contest by AADL will be held on Sunday, August 2 at the Sheraton Hotel across State St from Briarwood Mall. I love that it is on a Sunday now making drop-off easier for working parents.

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Drop your project off anytime between 9a-1p. Then return from 4-6p when the doors open for public display. The awards ceremony from 6-6:30p. From 1-4p the doors are closed for judging. If you submit an event, make sure to stay for the awards ceremony as all projects must go home after.

Even if you don’t have an entry, it is still fun to go see the creations. There have been a couple of years where we returned from vacation the day of the annual LEGO contest and weren’t able to drop off our entry, but still went to view the creations.

Prizes are awarded in 6 age categories. Overall winners in each age group will win a $50, $40, and $30 Target gift card. Ribbons are also giving in a few special categories. It can be easier to win a ribbon than the overall winner. At the 10th contest, my daughter won a medal for best use of 10 – I think she was the only entry at her age level.

Age Categories

When a project is a collaboration by individuals in multiple age categories, it is placed in the older age category. Categories are determined by Fall 2026 grade

Preschool
Grades K-2
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Grades 9-12 (plus 2025 Graduates)
Adults

Special Categories

The guidelines document is usually where you can find the special categories. As of May 20, the website says guidelines will be coming soon.

This year, they are also announcing the Dream Library challenge for the redesign of the Downtown Library. One of the options for submission is a LEGO model at the LEGO contest.

Best Motorized Project
Best Architectural/Engineering
Coolest Robot
Best Vehicle
Most Creative
Best Book Related
Best Local Inspiration
Most Sophisticated
AADL Super LEGO Builder

Be sure to check the AADL website for the complete rules and guidelines.

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