Nominations are now open for the 11th annual Best of Windsor Essex Awards.
The awards, organized by Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, are a “community-driven celebration recognizing the region’s most loved restaurants, attractions, shops, festivals and visitor experiences – as submitted by the people who know them best.”
Organizers say this year’s awards introduce a revamped look and feel, a streamlined list of 25 award categories, and a refreshed focus aligned with current traveller trends.
“After 10 years, it was important for us to refresh the Best of Windsor Essex Awards to keep them relevant, topical and reflective of how people actually experience the region today,” said Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island. “The updated look, refined categories and new awards better align with current traveller trends, and the reasons people choose to visit – from food and culture to waterfront, festivals and overnight stays.”
New award categories this year include:
- Best Brunch Spot
- Best Global Flavours
- Best Sweet Treat
- Best Waterfront View
- Best Overnight Stay
- Best Brewery, Cidery or Distillery
- Best Waterfront Experience
- Best Festival, Event or Parade
- Best Shopping Experience
“What hasn’t changed is the heart of the program — it’s still driven by the voices of our community,” said Orr. “The public input gives us true, authentic insight into where locals love to go, and that’s exactly what visitors want to explore when they come”
You can nominate a local business now through February 1st, 2026, at www.bestofwindsoressex.ca/nominate