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Winners from the 2025 Vernon County Awards Banquet held at the Venue in the Valley - Brandie Myhre photo

Nominations now open for 2026 Vernon County Awards

Vernon County Awards Return in 2026

Sept. 1, 2026

VERNON COUNTY, Wis. – The Vernon County Community Development Department is pleased to announce the date and location for the 2026 Vernon County Awards, as well as the opening of nominations for this year’s awards. The 2026 Awards Banquet will be held Wednesday, Nov. 4, at Willow+Oak at Hillsboro Brewing Company in Hillsboro.

You can read our story on last year’s awards here.

Now in its fourth year, the Vernon County Awards celebrate the people, businesses, and organizations making a difference throughout the community. The annual event recognizes the accomplishments and contributions that help make Vernon County a great place to grow.

2024 Vernon County Award Winners – Tim Hundt photo

This year’s banquet theme, “Stronger Together: Adapting, Innovating, Thriving,” highlights the unique strengths of Vernon County’s communities, residents, and businesses. From adapting to change and embracing new ideas to working together to overcome challenges, the people of Vernon County demonstrate every day what it means to be stronger together. These efforts help create vibrant communities and make Vernon County a place where people and businesses can grow and thrive.

As a new addition to this year’s banquet, guests will have the option to take a brewery tour of Hillsboro Brewing Company before dinner and the awards ceremony. The tour will begin at 4:00 p.m. and offer visitors a behind-the-scenes look at Vernon County’s only brewery, including the history of Hillsboro Brewing Company and the historic building it now occupies.

Nominations are open Sept. 1 through Sept. 30. Award categories include returning favorites such as business, event, and non-profit awards, as well as the opportunity to recognize young leaders, land stewards, and health and safety services that strengthen our communities.

A full list of award categories and nomination forms can be found online here.

“This event is such a fun opportunity to come together and celebrate the strengths of our community,” said Larkin Breckel, Vernon County Economic Development and Marketing Coordinator. “The Vernon County Awards are not just about recognizing outstanding achievements; they are also about strengthening connections and collaboration across the county. It’s a wonderful opportunity to unite, appreciate, and inspire one another.”

2023 Vernon County Award winners – Tim Hundt photo

The Vernon County Awards are an opportunity to recognize the individuals, businesses, and organizations whose contributions strengthen our communities and help Vernon County remain a great place to grow. The community is invited to nominate those who are adapting, innovating, collaborating, and helping Vernon County thrive.

Join us Wednesday, Nov. 4, as we come together to celebrate the people and organizations that make Vernon County Stronger Together.

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