The ArtsFairfax Awards recognize the contributions of individuals, organizations, and corporations that significantly impact the arts in Fairfax County and the Cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. The awards highlight the role of the arts in shaping the local community and bring together elected officials, business leaders, and arts professionals to honor excellence in arts education, impact, and philanthropy. Winners are celebrated at an annual event, reinforcing the importance of continued investment and engagement in the arts.

There are three award categories: the Education Award, which honors an artist or arts organization for exceptional arts education opportunities; the Impact Award, which acknowledges an organization, program, or activity for its meaningful contributions to the community; and the Philanthropy Award, which recognizes private sector leadership and financial support in the arts. Nominees must reside in or primarily conduct professional activities within Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, or the City of Falls Church. Past winners are ineligible for the same award but may be nominated in a different category.

The nomination process requires completion of an online submission form by 5:00 PM on February 28, 2025. Each application must address all required questions, with responses limited to 500 words each. Optional supplemental materials, such as program brochures, press reviews, testimonials, or letters of support, can be submitted to strengthen the nomination. Multiple nominations by the same nominator are allowed, but a separate form is required for each. Self-nominations are accepted, and nominators are encouraged to collaborate when multiple individuals wish to nominate the same candidate.

Award winners will be notified by March 31, 2025, and will be publicly announced through the ArtsFairfax website, press releases, newsletters, and social media. Winners must provide biographical details and photos and participate in a video interview, which will be recorded in the summer and used for promotional purposes, including during the awards ceremony. The interviews will remain the property of ArtsFairfax for future use.

The 2025 ArtsFairfax Awards will be held on October 24, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM at the Hyatt Regency Reston. Each award recipient will receive four complimentary tickets to the event, and additional seats or tables can be purchased at special rates for sponsors and nonprofit organizations.

For any inquiries, nominators may contact Caroline Barnes at cbarnes@artsfairfax.org for further assistance.