The time has come to unveil the Best Of Rochester 2026 finalists!
After 15,492 submissions — including laugh-out-loud write-ins, several three-way ties and more than a few surprises (always) — voting is now open for the final round in 156 categories.
Vote HERE until Friday, Nov. 27 at midnight.
If you’re a finalist, you can also promote yourself / your business right on the Best Of ballot here and find the Best Of 2026 media kit for sharing on your social channels and website here.
And after gathering a crowd of 500+ at Anthology last time around, Best Of Rochester takes to the stage again on Friday, January 8, 2027.
Throw on that ‘fit you’ve been saving for a big night out and catwalk the red carpet at Anthology, 336 East Ave., for a big ol’ variety-style awards show.
From 7-10 p.m., enjoy snacks, drinks, HypeBooth photo ops, vendor booths, merch and more from CITY/WXXI, DJ tunes and, of course: our January issue with ALL the winners, hot off the press!
V Spehar from Under The Desk News and NYT bestselling author Jonathan Graziano will be your emcees for the evening, alongside members of the CITY/WXXI team and a few surprise guests. The full awards show, featuring local performances and unveiling 150+ Best Of Rochester winners, will begin at 7:30 p.m. The event is 18+ only.
TICKETS ON SALE SOON!
For all our Best of Rochester updates, follow CITY on Instagram and Facebook.
