Entries Are Pouring In: The 2025/2026 American Advertising Awards

Baltimore’s creative energy is surging as entries flood into the 2025/2026 American Advertising Awards. Submissions have accelerated rapidly in the final stretch, and this year’s competition is already emerging as one of the most diverse, dynamic, and highly competitive award cycles in recent memory.

Agencies, studios, independent creators, students, and in-house teams across the region are contributing standout work spanning campaigns, brand identity systems, digital experiences, motion, photography, and emerging technologies. The volume and range of submissions signal a strong year for Baltimore on the local, district, and national stage.

Final Entry Deadline

The entry window officially closes at 11:59 PM on January 16th, marking the last opportunity for work from the 2025 calendar year to be included in this cycle.

Judging Begins Immediately Following the Deadline

Once the portal closes, all entries will move into the judging phase. A panel of industry experts from outside the Baltimore market will review and score the work based on creative excellence, strategy, execution, innovation, and overall impact.

The results of the local judging process will determine which entries advance to the District 2 competition and, potentially, to the National ADDYs later this year. Updates on judging progress will be shared as the process unfolds.

Preparations Underway for the 2026 Awards Gala

As judging commences, preparations for the 2026 American Advertising Awards Gala are already in motion. Upcoming announcements will include:

• Event theme and location

• Volunteer and participation details

• Ticket sales and member pricing

• ADDY winners and special recognitions

The gala will once again bring together Baltimore’s creative community for a celebration of the work, the talent, and the collaborative energy that define the region’s advertising and design landscape.

Closing Note

The final countdown is underway, and the momentum is strong. As the last entries are submitted and the judging process begins, the 2025/2026 awards season enters its most anticipated phase.

More updates will follow as the competition advances toward the March gala and the announcement of this year’s winners.