Canstruction Competition

Join us for the Garden’s inaugural Canstruction Competition, taking place March 6–8, 2026.

What is Canstruction? Canstruction is a unique design-and-build competition where teams create large-scale, imaginative sculptures entirely from full cans of food. These impressive can-creations blend artistic design with community service, helping raise awareness and fight hunger—because every can counts.

Teams will design and construct larger-than-life structures made entirely of canned goods, which will be on public display at the Grisham Pavilion. Located outside the gated garden areas, the exhibit is free for spectators to enjoy.

Following the event, all donated cans will be given to the North Alabama Food Bank, turning creativity into meaningful community impact.

Come be inspired by art, generosity, and teamwork—and see how imagination can help nourish our neighbors.

Competition Timeline

Spectators are welcome to stop by the Grisham Pavilion at any time to watch the can-creation process in action. To see the completed can-creations and cast your votes, visit on Sunday, March 8, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• March 6: 2 PM – 4 PM Teams may drop off cans and stage. Building must not begin until 4 PM.
  • 4 PM – 9 PM Teams begin constructing their can-creations.
• March 7: 9 AM – 4 PM Teams construct their can-creations with construction ending at 4 PM.
  • 4 PM – 6 PM Can-creations on display for viewing
• March 8: 11 AM – 5 PM Spectators can view and vote on their favorite can-creation at the Grisham pavilion. Online voting opens at 11 AM. Voting will close at 5 PM, and the winner will be announced.

Interested in joining the competition?

Learn more about the competition details, registration, and more.
Application Deadline: Monday, February 23