ELLSWORTH — The Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce has opened the final round of community voting for the 2026 Best of Awards, an annual campaign recognizing the businesses and organizations that make Ellsworth a great place to live, work, and visit.

Round 2 voting is now open and runs through Friday, Feb. 6, giving community members the opportunity to show appreciation for their favorite local businesses by casting their votes at www.ellsworthchamber.com/best-of-awards.

After a strong first round of voting, finalists have been named in nine award categories. The final round will determine this year’s winners, who will be announced at the Chamber’s upcoming Shake, Rattle ’n Roll Awards Dinner later this month. This year’s Best of Awards theme, “The Big Hits,” celebrates the businesses and organizations that continue to make a meaningful impact in the Ellsworth community.

“This awards program is really about the community coming together to support the businesses they value,” said Kim Beebe, Executive Director of the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce. “Our local businesses do so much more than provide goods and services — they create jobs, support community events, invest locally, and help shape Ellsworth’s identity. Voting is a simple way for residents to say thank you and show their appreciation for the businesses that matter to them.”

One exciting development in this year’s competition is a four-way tie in the Best Customer Service category, resulting in four finalists advancing to the final round.

“This is a testament to the high level of service provided by Ellsworth businesses,” added Beebe.

Community members are encouraged to review the finalists and participate in voting before the deadline. Every vote helps recognize the businesses and organizations that contribute to Ellsworth’s vitality and success.

2026 Best of Awards finalists

Best New Business: Amma’s Pies, Margaret Rose Afternoon Tea, Sno Hill Chapel

Best Restaurant, Bar, Tavern: Broz Bar, The Thirsty Badger, Vino in the Valley

Best Tourism Destination/Attraction: Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, Ellsworth Country Club, Vino in the Valley

Best Health, Wellness & Beauty: Country Fit, Kollbaum Chiropractic, YB Urban Aroma Bar

Best Professional Service: Marlee’s Bake Shop, Sno Hill Chapel, WESTconsin Credit Union

Best Professional Home Service: Harrington’s Greenhouse, Johnson’s Sanitation, Reuvers’ Nursery

Best Retail Services: Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, Waltz Ace Hardware, YB Urban Aroma Bar

Best Non-profit, Civic, Religious Organization: Ellsworth Public Library, St. Francis Catholic Church & School, Turningpoint for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence

Best Customer Service: Broz Bar, River Road Coffee, Sno Hill Chapel, The Thirsty Badger

The Best of Awards are a celebration of Ellsworth itself. Each vote is a way for residents to recognize the businesses and organizations that serve them every day and help make this community thrive. The Ellsworth Chamber encourages everyone to take part in this final round of voting and help shine a spotlight on the local businesses that make Ellsworth such a special place. To vote and learn more about the Best of Awards, visit: www.ellsworthchamber.com/best-of-awards

Submitted by Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce