2025 Buffy Awards Gala, image via Arts Council of Wood Buffalo Facebook
FORT McMURRAY — Nominations are now open for the 2026 Wood Buffalo Excellence in Arts Awards, an annual event celebrating artists and cultural groups across the region.
Arts Council Wood Buffalo says the awards, commonly known as the Buffys, will take place Oct. 17 at Keyano Theatre in Fort McMurray. The ceremony brings together the community to recognize artistic achievements in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.
Organizers say the 2026 event will carry the theme Electric Midnight and will feature live performances and presentations highlighting artists, groups and arts organizations whose work contributes to the region’s cultural life.
Executive director Liana Wheeldon says the awards showcase the creativity found throughout the region and offer residents a chance to connect with local arts through performance, storytelling and visual expression.
Community members are invited to nominate artists, groups and organizations who have made meaningful contributions to the local arts scene. Award recipients will be selected by a national jury of arts professionals, organizers say.
Trevor Butler, director of marketing with presenting partner Wood Buffalo Media Group, says the event provides a platform to celebrate the depth and diversity of artistic talent across Wood Buffalo.
Nominations will be accepted until June 16 through the Arts Council Wood Buffalo website.
Arts Council Wood Buffalo is a non-profit society and registered charity that supports artists and promotes arts and culture throughout the region.
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