Each year, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision to create a Beloved Community, Lyric Baltimore invites Baltimore-area students to share their big dreams for a better world. The Dream Big Contest is an annual competition for Baltimore City and Baltimore County students in grades 5–12.

The 2026 contest is inspired by Maryland icon Harriet Tubman, and asks students to creatively respond to the question: "How will you reach for the stars and change the world?" This theme celebrates Tubman's courage and determination while inviting students to envision their own paths toward positive change for their lives, communities, and the world. 

How It Works
Students submit original creative works in one of five categories:

• Poem
• Essay
• Video
• Musical Composition
• Artwork

All submissions should reflect the student's vision for creating a better world and demonstrate creative thinking and problem-solving around real challenges. The contest runs from December 8, 2025, to February 20, 2026. Students should register and submit their work at https://dreambigcontest.org

Recognition and Awards
Top finalists, called "Visionaries," present their work at the Dream Big Celebration on March 24, 2026, at 7:00 pm at Lyric Baltimore. Visionaries, Dreamers, and Strivers receive cash prizes and awards.

Each year, the submissions reveal remarkable insights and courage. The Dream Big Contest highlights the brilliance of Greater Baltimore's young people.

Our Mission
The Dream Big Contest supports Lyric Baltimore's educational mission to present programs that support the voice and agency of Greater Baltimore youth.

2025 Dream Big compilation posted on Instagram

For more information about the Dream Big Contest, go to: 
https://dreambigcontest.org

https://www.lyricbaltimore.com/education/dreambig

You can also contact Lyric Baltimore’s education department at: education@mdlyric.org.

MPT is a proud media partner of Dream Big.

2025 Dream Big compilation posted on Instagram