At this year's American Advertising Awards we are all in on celebrating each and every story—the creativity, determination, and brilliance it takes to craft extraordinary work–to be born for this. Join us as we honor the visionaries, advertisers, and artists who have always had the creative spark day in and day out.
Thursday, Feb 26, 2026 | Hyatt regency rochester
CREATIVITY CANNOT BE TAUGHT FOR EVERYONE—IT’S A UNIQUE TRAIT YOU’RE BORN WITH. THERE HAVE BEEN PATTERNS IN EVERY STAGE OF YOUR LIFE–GETTING YOUR HANDS DIRTY, EMBRACING THE UNKNOWN, AND CELEBRATING THE CHALLENGE OF TRANSFORMING IDEAS INTO SOMETHING IMPACTFUL. THIS YEAR, WE HONOR THE CREATIVES OF THE ADVERTISING WORLD—THOSE OF US WHO HAVE ALWAYS CHALLENGED OURSELVES AND EMBRACED OUR TALENTS AND INNOVATION.
YOU WERE BORN FOR THIS.YOU'RE INVITED TO ROCHESTER’S BIGGEST NIGHT.
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the bold ideas, brilliant designs, and fearless storytelling that define our industry.
Whether you’re an advertising pro, a student with big aspirations, or simply a champion of creativity, this is your night to connect, be inspired, and honor our community's best work.
Doors open at 5:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy heavy appetizers, mingle with fellow creatives, and soak in the energy before the show begins at 7:00 PM.
This is more than an awards show—it’s a celebration of the creative journey and the people who dare to take it.
Event details
Hyatt Regency Rochester
125 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604
February 26, 2026 | Doors open at 5:30PM, Show begins at 7:00PM
We recommend attendees use the South Ave Parking Garage, which can be accessed via E Main Street (Main Hotel Entrance), South Avenue, or Stone Street.
Parking validation will be provided at the show.
reserve your tickets
Being part of the club gets you sweet rewards — like the best priced tickets to the show.
members
Being part of the club gets you sweet rewards — like the best priced tickets to this epic event.
non members
Why just attend — when you can belong? It's not too late. Join here →
students
You are the future of our industry and we can’t wait to cheer you on in your journey.
table of 10
Buying a table saves you $50.
WHO WILL TAKE HOME THE SILVER, UP-AND-COMING, AND TRAILBLAZER AWARDS?
You won't want to miss seeing who goes home with these top honors. Help us recognize the legends and rising stars who take bold risks, innovate, and make our industry a better place.
UP & COMING AWARD
The Up & Coming Award recognizes an emerging advertising professional, with ten or fewer years of experience, who demonstrates exceptional creativity, skill, and leadership potential on their creative journey.
SILVER AWARD
The Silver Award honors a creative adventurer who has navigated the ever-changing landscape of advertising with skill, passion, and leadership. . A true master of the craft, their contributions have earned them the respect of their colleagues and the admiration of the entire industry.
trailblazer award
The Trailblazer Award honors an advertising professional who has made a bold impact in the past year, driving meaningful change and inspiring others through innovative work and fearless leadership.
FAQS
This is a celebration of creativity, so dress sharp but comfortable. No tuxes required. Feel free to show personality through color, texture, or statement pieces while keeping the look polished and event-ready. The goal is confident, creative, and put-together—something you’d feel great wearing on stage or in photos.
We recommend attendees use the South Ave Parking Garage, which can be accessed via E Main Street (Main Hotel Entrance), South Avenue, or Stone Street. Parking validation will be provided at the show.
We'll have heavy appetizers that accommodate most food restrictions and preferences and there will be a cash bar.
As part of our commitment to hosting inclusive and accessible events, we strive to enable all individuals, including those with disabilities and personal needs, to fully engage and enjoy. Our venue offers, elevator access, and barrier-free pathways. To request other reasonable accommodations for this event, please contact awards@aafgreaterrochester.org and inform us of the specific accommodations you may need for full participation.
Still have questions?
Have a question that isn't answered here? Email awards@aafgreaterrochester.org and someone from our team will get back to you ASAP.
