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Save the Dates: 2026 Escape the Vape Video Challenge

Minnesota students have until January 31 to enter for a chance to win cash prizes The Escape the Vape Video Challenge, a youth vaping prevention video contest, is back for 2026. Minnesota middle and high school students are invited to create and submit a 30-second public service announcement (PSA) video to educate their peers on the dangers of e-cigarette use, also known as vaping. Contest submissions will be accepted December 2025 through January 2026. Submissions will be entered for a chance to win cash prizes for both students and their schools.

New this year

Sample lesson plans for schools

This contest provides students an opportunity to learn about the dangers of vaping as well as hone their acting, video, and media production skills. Sample lesson plans are now available to help schools use the Escape the Vape Video Challenge as a classroom activity.

Check it out: Sample Lesson Plans | Escape the Vape Video Challenge (PDF)

Contest guide for youth

Contest rules, guidelines, and tips for creating videos are now available all in one spot! This consolidated contest guide is available online and can be shared with both participants and adult coordinators and educators.

Check it out: Contest Guide | Escape the Vape Video Challenge (PDF)

Help promote the contest

• Engage youth in your network. Share news about the upcoming contest, and if your organization coordinates a youth group, consider using the contest as a group activity.
• Promote the content with schools. Health education, theater, or media and video production classes are excellent spaces for using the contest as a classroom activity. Let educators in your community know the contest is coming and that sample lesson plans are available to help them embed the contest in their curriculum.
• Promote the contest with youth-serving organizations. The contest may be a great fit for other youth-serving organizations or after-school programs. Let these partners know the contest is an option.

Students can learn about the contest at mnescapethevape.org. For more information on promoting the Escape the Vape Video Challenge and other youth counter-marketing campaigns, visit our website.

Prizes for students and schools

Middle and high school students will compete in separate divisions. Cash prizes will be awarded for the top five entries in each division.

• First place: $500 for students and $250 for their organization or school
• Second place: $250 for students
• Third place: $150 for students
• Fourth place: $100 for students
• Fifth place: Escape the Vape Video Challenge swag package

Contest dates

• December 1, 2025: Video Submission Opens
• January 31, 2026: Video Submission Deadline
• March 2026: Finalists Announced
• April 2026: Public Voting and Winners Announced

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