Best of the Best 2026

It's time to celebrate LOCAL!


Join us on September 17, 2026, for this year’s Best of the Best (BEST) Banquet at the Chattanooga Convention Center!


Tastemakers, local business owners, educators, nonprofit leaders, and more will come together as we celebrate the people and organizations making a lasting impact on the Chattanooga community.


Come dressed in your best formal wear for an unforgettable night featuring multiple photo booths, an exclusive VIP Lounge, live entertainment, and a NEW & IMPROVED afterparty!


It’s going to be a night to remember, so skip the FOMO and see you there!

Buy Tickets Here

Each Ticket Includes

Cocktail Reception


2 Drinks Tickets for Beer, Wine and Featured Cocktails


Three Course Meal


Each Ticket Includes


General Admission

$109 plus tax & fees


Full Table (10 Seats)

$1,090 plus tax & fees


Children 5 and under

FREE


Please contact

marketing@timesfreepress.com if

you have any children under

5-years old in your party.


Thanks to our Sponsors


Thank you to our generous sponsors for making our annual Best of the Best

event possible. Your support -- from the valet to the signature drinks -- has

been vital in creating a memorable experience. Your involvement not only

enhances the event but also strengthens our community's shared values

and spirit. Together, we honor the best of Chattanooga.


About Best of the Best


Presented by the Chattanooga Times Free Press, the 17th Annual Best of the Best readers-choice awards is an opportunity for Chattanoogans to recognize the incredible businesses and individuals that make the Scenic City such a great place to live and work. 


Featuring over 200 categories ranging from “Best Burger” to “Best Attorney” to “Best Non-Profit,” thousands of local Chattanoogans nominate and then vote for their favorites in each category with the results being announced at a gala in the fall before being published in print and online in the Chattanooga Times Free Press.


From small mom-and-pop shops to large corporations, the Best of the Best program is a chance for locals to come together and recognize the hard work and dedication of those who help make Chattanooga the vibrant city so many are proud to call home.