Entries are currently being accepted for the 2006 California Strawberry Festival poster contest, with the submission deadline set for Jan. 6, 2006.

Paying tribute to California’s rich agricultural heritage and benefiting various charities, the festival is presented annually in May in Oxnard.

Artists of all ages may enter in any preferred medium, but the finished product must be reproduction compatible. The committee selecting the winner is looking for an eye-catching image to capture the look and feel of the weekend event that attracts thousands with its festive array of entertainment, foods, fine arts and crafts and family entertainment.

A collection of festival posters throughout the decades is available for viewing at the official website, www.strawberryfest.org.

The first-place winner will receive $1,500 and be the featured guest of honor at a press luncheon announcement in February. In addition to being the official poster, the winning design will be used in advertisements and printed on collectible T-shirts and various promotional items. The prize for secondand third-place winners is $300 each.

All finished artwork for consideration must be 16 inches wide and 17 inches high, centered and mounted on a black matte board 18 inches wide and 19 inches high. Names and contact information should be easily viewed on the back. It’s not necessary to include the name of the festival in the rendition. Entries can be mailed or hand delivered to the festival office at 1661 Pacific Ave., Ste.15, Oxnard, CA 93033; phone (805) 385-4739.

Top winners will be notified by Jan. 13. All posters must be picked up between Jan. 13 and 20, as they will not be returned.