Competition

The International Woodcarvers Congress is, to the best of our knowledge, the longest running, competitively judged, woodcarving art show in the United States. It is truly the most prestigious show of its kind. Artists from all over the United States, Canada and overseas have competed for cash and awards at the “Congress”.

The IWC offers over 95 separate categories in the judged competition. Cash awards and prizes have in past years exceeded $20,000 thanks to our very generous sponsors.

The competition is judged each year by a team of judges who are considered quite advanced in their particular woodcarving field. (See the Judging page for more information).

The competition is open to all levels of carvers. Membership in AWC is necessary to compete unless you are 18 years old or younger.  Competitors 18 years or younger must submit the Youth Permission form signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Please note :  "Walk-in" carving will be accepted at the show site  Jackson  County Fairgrounds in BOYER HALL behind Pearson Hall:

Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th between  10 am and 4pm. 

 Monday , June 9 from 6:00-8:00am pre-registered ONLY. 

Absolutely no exceptions will be allowed in at that time. 

Information and Forms:

Further information and required forms are available below. Click on each item to view and download.    

2025 Forms and Information are now available - click the links below to view and download individual documents.

 Competition Group and Class Listing - version 02-11-24

 Rules of Competition - version 02-11-24

 Special Packing and Shipping Instructions - version 01-12-24

2025 Competition Entry Form version 12-02-24

Youth Permission Form - version 02-12-24

 2025 Shirt & Patch Form - version 12-02-24

Mail In Carvings:

Ship mail-in carvings to arrive between May 13 and June 6.  IMPORTANT - please note the change in ship-to address:  

Ship to: 

AWC, Ltd. c/o Jackson County Fairgrounds, 

1212 East Quarry St., Maquoketa, IA 52060.  

 See packing recommendations on the Competition page to help ensure your carving arrives intact.

If you have any questions in regards to determining what Group or Class your piece should go in, please contact our Show Chairman, Diane Colley

at (630)-335-4850 or email: dragonness77@comcast.net.