A buzz surrounding the Best of Upper Keys began two weeks ago as nominations officially opened to the community. Social media posts filled the feeds and guerilla marketing campaigns vying for the public’s support were launched by businesses, nonprofits and individuals.
After two weeks of online polling, the field of finalists is set for the 2nd Annual Best of Upper Keys, the premier people’s choice awards. Residents from the Keys and people throughout the world nominated their favorites in the food and drink, community and business divisions. Now, they’ll decide who comes away with the plaques and bragging rights in each of the 65 categories. The winners will be announced Nov. 11 at Whale Harbor Restaurants & Marina in Islamorada.
Around 25,000 nominations were cast in year two of the Best of Upper Keys — up from 18,000 the previous year.
“Landing on the ballot is a big deal,” said Keys Weekly publisher Jason Koler. “To be nominated as one of the best in your industry by your community is an accomplishment of its own.”
Voting began Thursday, Oct. 12 at noon and ends Sunday, Oct. 29 at 11:59 p.m. During this stage, voters can submit one ballot per day. People must place votes for 75% of the categories to cast a valid ballot.
“A majority of the votes came from the Florida Keys, including more than a quarter from Key Largo,” Koler said. “We’re excited to have a global audience voicing their say on the contest, as this shows how our community is appreciated and celebrated around the world.”
Visit keysweekly.com/buk23 or check out the back page of this paper to view the finalists and submit your votes for the best in town. Updates and reminders will be provided at keysweekly.com, in our daily e-blast, Upper Keys Weekly print editions and social media.
In 2022, nearly $20,000 raised from the inaugural Best of Upper Keys went to support the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. With extensive programs to help and counsel children and families in a time of need, the shelter will again be the beneficiary of the Best of Upper Keys.
Event sponsors include First Horizon Bank, Baptist Health Mariners Hospital, Dr. Michelle audiologist, Whale Harbor Restaurants & Marina, Going Aire, Artisan Group Builders, HNO Productions and Overseas Media Group.
Tickets to attend the Best of Upper Keys awards ceremony aren’t generally made available to the public due to demand. Winners, nominees and dignitaries are invited to attend and additional attendees are selected from a first-come, first-served waiting list. Email Jill@keysweekly.com to be placed on the list.
