Rules & Regulations

Real Panthers Decorate Blue Contest

Dates & Deadlines:

 

Thursday, Oct. 2, 2026
Completed Applications Due
Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 (on or before)
Entries Displayed
1-4 pm, Tuesday, Oct. 13
Entry Judging
Friday, Oct. 16
Winners Announced

Rules & Regulations

The Real Panthers Decorate Blue contest is meant to promote EIU pride and spirit. The following rules apply to all entries competing/non-competing:

  1. There are 3 categories of competition:
    • EIU Offices/Departments
    • Residence Halls/Greek Court and
    • Dining Halls/Food Court.
  2. Entries shall provide their own supplies and materials. Usage of materials may require administrative or departmental approval.
  3. Entries must demonstrate EIU pride and school-spirit in nature that incorporate the use of EIU name, logos, mascots and themes of “Lights, Camera, Panthers!” and "EIU Homecoming 2026".
  4. Entries should not use decorations that impede university access, entrances, or egress.
  5. Entries should not interfere with academic teaching or learning.
  6. Entries should adhere to fire safety code and signs/exits must remain visible and operational.
  7. Entries cannot use materials that will damage university doors, walls, furnishings, windows.
  8. No nails, tacks, duct tape or staples may be used and all adhesives used must be fully removable.
  9. Entry decorations may not impede the usage of the space or compromise ADA compliance or pose a safety hazard. Decorations must be fire retardant.
  10. No glitter, confetti, glue or other similar items may be used without prior administrative approval.

Judging

Judging will be based on the following criteria with a maximum of 100 pts. to be awarded:

SPIRIT

Use of EIU Homecoming Theme, EIU colors, logos, mascots, etc.
25 points

CREATIVITY

Artistic design and use of decorations, originality, creative
display.
25 points

DISPLAY

Usage of props, physical space, arrangement and placement
of decorations.
25 points

OVERALL APPEAL

Overall appearance exhibits school pride.
25 points

 

TOTAL POINTS AVAILABLE

100 points

  1. Judging will be in three categories:
    1. EIU Offices/Departments
    2. Residence Halls/Greek Court and
    3. Dining Halls/Food Court.
  2. Homecoming 2026 Plaques will be awarded to the first place winners in each category.
  3. Additionally, the first place winner in the EIU Offices/Departments category will be awarded a catered lunch or dinner for staff members, up to $200 in value.