The Peepal Conclave

Every Easter, when there are plenty of marshmallow Peeps available in all colors, several large newspapers hold contests for creative dioramas and artworks made from Peeps. The Seattle Times Peeps Contest is closed for entries, and the winners have yet to be selected, but you can see the entries online. One of the most popular themes this year is the selection of a new pope. It was a shock to the world when Pope Benedict XVI announced his retirement in February. The entire story of what happened is enshrined in Peeps.


The Peep announced he was retiring at the end of February. The moment was captured in marshmallow by 13-year-old Chloe.  

Cardinals from all over the world gathered in Vatican City for the Peepal Conclave, in this diorama by Eric & Meg Brown.


More and more cardinals arrive, ready and eager to elect the next Peep. This scene was a group effort by Katie Ferguson of Bothell and Rachel Klas, Joe Sullivan, and Mare Sullivan of Kirkland.


Cardinals meet in the Peep-al Conclave to select a new Peep, but no consensus was met on the first day. On the second day, the smoke signal went up! This entry is by the the Crone family of Seattle.


Habemus Peepam: We Have a New Peep! The smoke went up and the announcement is made in this diorama by Monique Vescia and Don Rauf.


The First Peep Pope was presented to the people gathered in St. Peters Square. The moment was illustrated by Terri Turner of Seattle in this entry.

Presenting Pope Francis. This scene was constructed by Empi Morn of Rowayton Connecticut.


Peep Francis greets the Peeple from the Peepmobile. This scene was created by Debbie Doty and Kerry Smith of Salon Celebrations in Lynwood, Washington.

Even though the deadline to win prizes has past, the Seattle Times is still accepting Peep scenes for publication.