City Hall Selfie Day turns 10 this year! On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, cities across Georgia and the nation will once again join in a fun, light-hearted tradition that puts public service—and the people behind it—front and center. Launched by ELGL (Engaging Local Government Leaders) in 2016, this nationally recognized event encourages municipal staff, elected officials, residents, and even pets to snap selfies in front of their city halls and other local government buildings.
What began as a grassroots celebration of local government has grown into a movement—highlighting the people who make cities run and celebrate the work done every day in communities big and small.
Why Should Georgia Cities Join the Celebration?
- Show off our city’s pride: Engage staff and residents in a creative, lighthearted way.
- Highlight the people who serve: Celebrate the hard work of city employees and public servants.
- Be part of something bigger: This year marks a decade of selfies, smiles, and civic engagement.
- Win national recognition: ELGL awards prizes in categories like Most Creative, Funniest, Best Pet, Most Historic, and the coveted People’s Choice Award.
How to Participate
- Mark your calendar for Tuesday, August 12
- Encourage your staff and community to participate
- Use props, signs, pets, or themes to make your selfies stand out
- Post on social media with #CityHallSelfie and tag @ELGL50. Include GMA in on the fun too by tagging @gacities on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and LinkedIn
- Submit your entries to ELGL to be considered for awards
Georgia Cities Have Made Their Mark
Over the years, Georgia communities have shown up in fun and creative ways—earning national recognition and reminding everyone how much heart exists in local government.
- Douglasville has consistently participated in years past, earning accolades in categories like Best of the Barbies (2023), Best Props (2021), Funniest #CityHallSelfie (2020), Best Social Distancing #CityHallSelfie #CityHomeSelfie (2020).
- Roswell took home the Most Creative #CityHallSelfie #CityHomeSelfie in 2021.
- Athens-Clarke County has won in categories such as Most Famous #CityHallSelfie (2022) and Best #CityHallSelfie with Kids/Family in 2021.
- Newnan has won in categories such as Best of the Barbies (2023) and Most Unique #CityHallSelfie (2020).
From large group photos to lighthearted pet selfies, the creativity continues to grow each year—and Georgia cities are encouraged to join in the tradition.
Get Involved in the 10-Year Anniversary
Here’s how your city can be part of the 10th annual celebration:
- Plan ahead: Announce internally and on social media, gather props, and promote to residents.
- Get creative: Encourage staff, residents, and elected officials to take part and have fun.
- Engage your community: Host a selfie station or hold a mini-contest for best photo.
- Share your work: Post using #CityHallSelfie and tag @ELGL50—and submit your best for award consideration. Don’t forget to tag @gacities on Facebook, LinkedIn and X (formerly known as Twitter).
Why It Matters
City Hall Selfie Day is more than a photo op—it’s a powerful tool for connection. It helps:
- Humanize local government
- Celebrate the often unseen work of city staff
- Foster transparency and pride in public service
- Highlight the beauty and uniqueness of your municipality facilities
And with this year marking the 10th anniversary, there’s never been a better time to go big, go bold, and show the state (and country) how your city shows up for civic pride.
Let’s Celebrate a Decade of Selfies!
Whether you’ve participated for years or this will be your first time, make plans now to join the fun. Get your team together, plan your theme, and help make the 10-year celebration of City Hall Selfie Day the best one yet. Smile big, Georgia cities—your city deserves the spotlight!