2024 SPOTLIGHT AWARDS + SOIREE

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Annual Spotlight Soirée, where we honor the outstanding businesses and organizations that make our community shine. This year's event will be held on October 8th at the historic Cheney Mansion in Oak Park. Let's come together to celebrate the spirit, creativity, and dedication that define our vibrant community.

Celebrate Small Businesses with Us!

This is our opportunity to recognize and celebrate the businesses and organizations that make Oak Park and River Forest such a vibrant and thriving community. Whether it’s a beloved local legend, an excellent eatery, a business providing exceptional customer experiences, or a small business superhero who saved your day, we want to hear about them!

WANT TO GET YOUR TICKET & SEE WHO WINS? CLICK HERE FOR SPOTLIGHT SORIEE TICKETS

Award Categories

Community Character

This award recognizes a business or organization that truly embodies the unique, creative, and supportive spirit of our community. They are not only successful but also fun, smart, and one-of-a-kind. Nominate the business that epitomizes who we are.

Customer Experience

Which business makes you feel like the most important customer in the world? This award honors those who deliver an unforgettable, over-the-top customer experience consistently. It's more than just great service – it's an experience that keeps you coming back and telling your friends.

Excellent Eats

This is for the local eatery that you can't wait to show off to out-of-town visitors. The perfect combination of delectable food, excellent service, and an inviting environment. Celebrate the pinnacle of local dining excellence with this award.

Local Legend

This heritage award celebrates a business that has become a cornerstone of our community, capturing the heart and staying power through generations. It's a Lifetime Achievement Award for a local business that is deeply intertwined with our community's identity.

New & Notable

For businesses that have opened their doors between 2020 and May 2024 and have quickly become beloved fixtures in our neighborhood. This award recognizes new businesses that fill a gap we didn't know existed, bringing fresh products, services, and experiences that feel like they've always been a part of our community.

Small Business Superhero

This award is for the individual or small business that has truly saved your day. Whether it was an emergency service, a last-minute need, or exceptional expertise, this superhero has made a significant impact on your life. Celebrate the small business that went above and beyond to make your week.

Watch the video from our 2022 Spotlight Soiree!