2025 Buffy Awards Gala, image via Arts Council of Wood Buffalo Facebook
FORT MCMURRAY — Wood Buffalo’s annual arts awards are returning to Keyano Theatre in less than a month, with the 2026 Wood Buffalo Excellence in Arts Awards set for Oct. 17.
Known locally as the Buffys, the event recognizes local artists, arts groups and organizations for their contributions to the region’s cultural community.
This year’s awards are presented by Wood Buffalo Media Group and will feature live performances, visual art and other creative experiences throughout the evening.
Arts Council Wood Buffalo says the event is designed to transform the theatre into a showcase of local talent while giving the community a chance to celebrate the people shaping arts and culture across the region.
This year’s theme is Electric Midnight, inspired by 1970s music culture, glam rock, neon nightlife and the electric atmosphere of the stage.
Guests are encouraged to dress with the theme in mind.
The awards process began earlier this year with community nominations and self-applications.
Entries in each category are reviewed by a provincewide adjudication committee, with at least three adjudicators scoring each submission.
The three highest average scores in each category make up the shortlist, while the highest-scoring entry becomes the award recipient.
Winners will be announced live during the Wood Buffalo Excellence in Arts Awards on Oct. 17 at Keyano Theatre.
Arts Council Wood Buffalo says peer evaluation is central to the process and adjudicators represent a range of artistic disciplines.
The organization also allows artists to submit nominations by recorded audio and offers support to participants who may need help completing the nomination process.
The Buffys are organized by Arts Council Wood Buffalo, a non-profit society and charitable organization that supports artists and arts organizations across the region.
The council says the gala is intended not only to recognize achievement, but also to help artists strengthen portfolios, grow their networks and create new opportunities locally, across Alberta and beyond.
The evening begins at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets include food throughout the event, along with the Buffys’ signature candy bar. A cash bar will also be available.
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