Nominations are now open for the City of Owen Sound’s 2026 Arts and Culture Awards, with residents encouraged to put forward individuals and organizations who have made a meaningful impact on the local creative community.
The awards highlight the role arts, culture and heritage play in shaping the community and celebrate those whose work contributes to Owen Sound’s cultural vitality.
This year’s awards reception will take place on Thursday, April 16, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre. The event is open to the public and will feature entertainment, light refreshments and a cash bar. The biannual Arts and Culture Awards will be presented in partnership with the annual Jan Chamberlain Volunteer of the Year Awards, bringing together recognition of both creative and volunteer contributions.
The Arts and Culture Awards honour excellence across the greater Owen Sound area, recognizing achievements by artists, groups and cultural leaders. Award categories include Emerging Artist, Cultural Impact, Artistic Excellence, Outstanding Event, Cultural Changemaker, Cultural Legacy, Shared Voices and The Frontier Award. Recipients are selected by a jury made up of previous nominees and past award winners.
Nominations must be submitted online through OwenSound.ca/Awards and will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 27. The website also includes detailed eligibility criteria, information about past recipients and descriptions of each award category.
