Voting Now Open for the 11th Annual Best of Windsor Essex Awards
Top Seven Finalists Announced Across 25 Refreshed Award Categories
Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island officially launched the public voting for the 11th Annual Best of Windsor Essex Awards at bestofwindsoressex.ca/vote, revealing finalists across 25 awards that celebrate the region’s most loved places to eat, shop, stay, explore and experience.
The awards have been refreshed for 2026 to better reflect current traveller trends and the experiences that inspire people to plan trips to Windsor-Essex. In response to the high volume of nominations received, the program has expanded its finalist structure, with the top seven most-nominated businesses in each category advancing to the public voting stage — an increase from previous years Top 5 per award.
Public voting is now open at bestofwindsoressex.ca/vote and will run through March 1, 2026 at 11:59pm. As a thank-you for participating, all voters will be entered for a chance to win a $500 grand prize featuring winners of the 11th annual awards.
“The Best of Windsor Essex Awards continue to grow and evolve, and for 2026 we’ve refreshed the program to keep it relevant, topical and aligned with how people are travelling today,” said Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex and Invest WindsorEssex. “With such strong nomination activity, expanding to a top-seven finalist model allows us to recognize more outstanding local businesses and attractions while still keeping the awards meaningful and competitive.”
The awards play an important role in Tourism Windsor Essex’s year-round marketing efforts, helping showcase authentic, locally-loved experiences to visitors.
“These awards allow us to celebrate the very best of Windsor-Essex all year long,” Gordon Orr added. “They help us craft the story of our region through the places locals love; from food and festivals to waterfront views, shopping and overnight stays; and that authenticity is what resonates most with visitors.”
New and refreshed award categories for 2026 include Best Brunch Spot, Best Global Flavours, Best Sweet Treat, Best Waterfront View, Best Overnight Stay, Best Waterfront Experience, and Best Shopping Experience, among others.
“The Best of Windsor Essex Awards shine a spotlight on businesses and districts across the region, helping drive traffic, introduce residents and visitors to new experiences, and celebrate the unique stories that make Windsor-Essex special,” said Jason Toner, Director of Marketing & Communication of Tourism Windsor Essex. “Each year, the awards help elevate both established favourites and emerging businesses, strengthening our local visitor economy.”
Winners will be announced and celebrated during a live awards event on April 14th at the Capitol Theatre, taking over the main stage for a afternoon dedicated to local excellence.
For a full list of finalists and to cast your vote, visit bestofwindsoressex.ca/vote.
