Best of Vail Valley contest accepting nominations
Annual contest kicking off on July 6
Tricia Swenson/Vail Daily
The Vail Daily is excited to announce that the launch of Best of Vail Valley 2026-27 is underway with nominations being accepted from now through July 19. This popular contest covers everything from best burgers and margaritas to best kids’ party venue, chiropractor, auto repair shop and more.
“Best of Vail Valley is our opportunity to celebrate the businesses, organizations and individuals that help make this community exceptional,” said Zach DuFresne, publisher of the Vail Daily. “Running a business in the Vail Valley is no easy task. It takes dedication, exceptional service and a commitment to continually exceeding customer expectations. Best of Vail Valley shines a spotlight on those efforts and gives businesses well-deserved recognition from the community they serve. It also creates a trusted resource for both locals and visitors looking for the best places to eat, shop, stay and experience everything our valley has to offer.”
This contest wouldn’t exist without participation. Winners are chosen by the people who know the valley best: the community members. It’s a way to recognize excellence, support local businesses, and highlight the places and services that residents trust and recommend most. So, we want to hear from you. Nominate your favorite businesses in a wide variety of categories and the contest has expanded this year.
Best of Vail Valley has gone from six groups to nine, including Arts & Activities, Body & Soul, Shopping, Health and more. There are now 155 categories, about 25 more categories than last year. Some of the additions are Best Aperol Spritz, Best Ramen, Best Place to Play Mahjong, Best Trivia/Game Night and more.
“The contest only works when our community gets involved. Businesses can’t win if they aren’t nominated, and every nomination and vote helps ensure the results truly reflect the businesses our community values most,” DuFresne said. “Whether you’re nominating your favorite local business or encouraging your customers to participate, every vote helps celebrate the people and organizations that make the Vail Valley special.”
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Any business currently based and operating within Eagle County (East Vail to Dotsero) is eligible to participate. Businesses are encouraged to nominate themselves in any category that accurately reflects the products, services or experiences they provide.
“For example, if your restaurant is known for both its tacos and margaritas, and you believe both are among the best in the valley, we encourage you to submit nominations in both categories,” said Gretchen Lentz, digital account manager with the Vail Daily.
Nominations can be submitted by both community members and business owners. To participate, simply visit vaildaily.com/bestofvailvalley2026-27, sign in or create an account, and submit your nomination. Businesses only need to be nominated once per category to be considered.
After the nomination period, there will be a voting period from Aug. 20-30. Then, the votes will be tallied, and the winners will be announced in mid-October and the Best of Vail Valley Magazine will hit newsstands and will be on display for a year.
“Recognition is just the beginning. Winning, or even being named a finalist, provides businesses with a powerful marketing opportunity. Throughout the year, the Vail Daily offers winners and finalists opportunities to promote their recognition through print, digital, social media and other marketing programs,” DuFresne said.
Who do you think has the best après ski, breakfast, golf course or spa? Tell us in this year’s annual readers’ poll.
