How do I get nominated? How do I make it to the voting round? HOW DO I WIN?
We will be holding open nominations through the end of June 2022. The top 10 nominees in each category will make it to the voting round in August 2022. The nominee with the most votes in that specific category during the voting around will walk away with that title for 2022. To check out the nominations and voting ballot, visit vote.cltampa.com

How wasn’t I nominated? I don’t understand. But I’m the best! You must hate me/us.
It’s important to keep in mind that the nominations you’re able to vote on during the voting phase are submitted by the PUBLIC. We hold a month-long open nominations period in June where we accept thousands of nominations! This year, only the top 10 nominees with the most nominations will move on to the voting phase.

So, the nominations are submitted by the public? Does Creative Loafing choose any awards?
Yes! Best of the Bay is split up into two sets of awards: Readers’ Picks and Critics’ Picks. The Readers’ Picks Awards (what YOU get to vote on) are submitted and voted on by the public; the person/place/business/thing/etc. with the most votes in that specific category walks away with that title for 2022. The Critics’ Pick Awards are curated awards selected by Creative Loafing staff. We do not accept nominations for these awards and, instead, are some of our staff’s favorite things about the Tampa Bay area right now.

Is CL hosting the party this year? Is there an awards ceremony at the party?
Yes, we're hosting the party this year! No, we do not host a formal awards ceremony. Instead, we party with the best! The Best of the Bay Party is a 21-and-up cocktail-style event featuring food and drink samples, local entertainment, and more. Awards will be available for pickup throughout the night and photo opportunities with your award(s) will be available. Plus, you get a unique opportunity to mix and mingle with Tampa Bay's best! Ticket information will be available on this site as it becomes available.

Is the party only for finalists and winners?
No! The party is open to the public! Anyone is welcome to sample the best, party with the best, and celebrate the best! If you love Tampa Bay, you'll want to be there.

What COVID-19 precautions will be taken at this year's party?
Capacity is limited and masks are encouraged. Please refer to CDC recommendations for COVID-19. Any mask or vaccination requirements by the venue will be available here. The Best of the Bay Awards Party 2022 is committed to a safe and positive event experience for guests, vendors, and staff, and will adhere to CDC-recommended protocols.