Is Your City Ready for the Global Spotlight?
If your city is a dynamic destination where festivals and events fuel culture, community, and economic vitality, it’s time to claim your place on the world stage by entering the 2026 IFEA World Festival & Event City Award—the premier international recognition for cities that champion exceptional festival and event environments.
This prestigious award honors cities that lead with vision, collaboration, and unwavering support for festivals and events that shape identity, drive tourism, and strengthen communities worldwide.
Why the IFEA World Festival & Event City Award Matters
This is more than an award—it’s a global statement of excellence.
By entering, your city will:
- Earn international recognition as a world-class destination for festivals and events
- Showcase powerful collaboration between city leadership, event producers, tourism partners, and the business community
- Attract new festivals, major events, tourism, and investment by demonstrating a proven, supportive ecosystem
- Stand alongside the world’s most celebrated event cities
Past honorees include iconic global destinations such as Sydney, Dublin, London, Shanghai, Johannesburg, Philadelphia, Palm Springs, Tucson, Krakow, Reykjavik, Nice, Taupō, Dubai, New Taipei, Milwaukee, McAllen, West Palm Beach, and Rotterdam—each recognized for setting the standard in festival and event leadership.
Your city could be next.
How to Enter
Entries for the 2026 IFEA World Festival & Event City Award must be submitted and paid online by 11:55 p.m. MDT on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Cities are encouraged to present a compelling submission that highlights:
- The diversity, scale, and success of festivals and events hosted
- Strong community engagement and cultural impact
- Meaningful support from municipal leadership, tourism entities, and non-governmental partners
Complete guidelines and submission details are available in the official award brochure.
Global Recognition with Lasting Impact
Receiving the award positions your city as an international leader in festival and event development. The recognition elevates your city’s brand, strengthens economic growth, celebrates cultural identity, and reinforces your reputation as a destination where events thrive.
Ready to Elevate Your City?
This is your opportunity to be recognized among the world’s most forward-thinking, event-driven cities.
Enter the 2026 IFEA World Festival & Event City Award and put your city on the global map.