Chamber Urges Final Push for Nominations as Deadline Nears for 2026 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards
With the nomination window quickly closing, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber is issuing an urgent call to the community to submit nominations for the 36th Annual Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union. The Chamber has extended the nomination deadline by two weeks, now ending Friday, Feb. 13, at 11:59 p.m., to ensure Bakersfield’s most impactful people and organizations are not left unrecognized.
This year’s awards carry a powerful theme: celebrating the people who are the Sound of Our City, the leaders, workers, and visionaries whose dedication shapes Bakersfield’s culture, economy, and sense of place.
While nominations have poured in across many categories, the Chamber is sounding a special call for submissions in several key areas, most notably a brand-new category making its debut this year:
NEW: Heart of Hospitality Award (Presented by Hard Rock Casino Tejon)
This new category honors exceptional team members in lodging, food & beverage, events, travel, and recreation, the frontline professionals who create unforgettable guest experiences and represent Bakersfield at its very best. The Chamber is actively seeking its first-ever nominees for this award and encourages employers, colleagues, and community members to step forward.
Additional categories still in need of nominations include:
- Urban Core – Honoring efforts that revitalize downtown Bakersfield, fostering a vibrant and
economically thriving community. - Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement Award – Honoring a leader (55+) whose lifetime
contributions have left a lasting impact on Bakersfield and its residents.
The Beautiful Bakersfield Awards Gala will take place Saturday, June 13, at the Dignity Health Arena Theater and Convention Center, featuring a “Sound of Our City” red carpet reception beginning at 5 p.m. The event remains one of Bakersfield’s premier celebrations of community excellence.
“This is the moment to make sure the people who truly define Bakersfield are seen,” said Janelle Capra, President & CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. “As we head into Valentine’s Day, there’s no better way to show love for our city than by honoring those who give their time, talent, and heart to it.”
Beautiful Bakersfield Awards Event Director Kimberly Price emphasized the importance of acting now.
“This extension is a final opportunity,” Price said. “If someone inspires you, serves your business,
strengthens your neighborhood, or represents Bakersfield with pride, nominate them now. These stories deserve to be told.”
Nominations for the 2026 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 13 at 11:59 p.m. To nominate a person, business, or organization for the 2026 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, visit beautiful.bakochamber.com.