Readers Choice Awards voting starts Monday

CONWAY — The nominations are in for the annual Best of Mount Washington Valley Readers Choice Awards, and there are many — about 1,800.

Now it's time to vote for your valley favorites. The online ballot opens this Monday and closes Labor Day. You can cast your ballots by going to conwaydailysun.com and clicking on the Best of MWV tab.

Voting is limited to one ballot submission per day but still gives supporters plenty of opportunities to return and vote for their local favorites. Last year, some 122,000 votes were cast.

The Conway Daily Sun, producer of the event, has put together about 130 categories under sections for adult beverages and bars; businesses and retailers; culture and community; food and dining; health and beauty; professional services; recreation; and restaurants.

The presenting sponsor is Black Mountain. The Gold Sponsor is Meredith Village Savings Bank North Conway.

After the ballots are tallied, a "reveal" party will be held at Cheese Louise in North Conway in late September. More details will be shared closer to the event.

The Readers Choice Awards was held last year for the first time since it was interrupted by COVID.

"It's like we haven't missed a beat," said contest organizer and Sun Associate Publisher Joyce Brothers. "Many familiar names, businesses and people were nominated who have become institutions in the valley, but also lots of new names. It will be a challenge for them to beat the familiar names, but many have quickly attracted followings," she said.

Brothers encouraged nominees to get out the vote.

"It's no different than regular elections," Brothers said. "Part of the game is to encourage people to vote for you."

The Readers’ Choice Awards can be found through the Sun’s website, conwaydailysun.com, or go directly to conwaydailysun.com/bestof2026 to start voting for your choices.

The Sun will actively promote the contest to encourage readers to return often and support their local favorites. 

Why vote? The Readers Choice Awards is more than just a contest; it's a celebration of our community and the businesses and people who make our valley so special. Winners will receive recognition in our upcoming Readers' Choice Edition and earn the right to display an exclusive award badge, showcasing the trust and support they've earned from the community.