We are now accepting entries for the 2026 American Advertising Awards, Seattle
The American Advertising Awards is the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition, attracting more than 25,000 entries every year in local AAF Ad Club competitions. The mission of the American Advertising Awards is to recognize and reward the creative spirit of excellence in the art of advertising.
Key Dates
Competition opens: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Info Session #1: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Info Session #2: Tuesday, January 13, 2026
1st entries deadline: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (after this date $30 late fee applies to non-members)
Final entries deadline*: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
(a $30 late fee applies to non-members)
*There is no secret extra late week beyond this.
Entry Fees
Professional Entries (Member Fee)
Single: $120
Campaign $145
Late fee: $0
Professional (Non-member Fee)
Single: $157
Campaign $169
Late fee: $30/entry beginning February 19, 2026
Student
Single: $72
Campaign $84
Late fee: $0
Becoming a member could save you a lot of money on your entries, or let you spend the same money on more entries. That’s just math.
Rules and Categories
This competition features a wide range of relevant categories, including many you might not expect. If your work reached an audience, it likely qualifies for an ADDY. From websites and songs to VR experiences, illustrations, print ads, and even TikTok videos—it’s all eligible and welcome.
Enter here
Showcase your creativity and make your mark in Seattle’s vibrant advertising community! Enter your best work today for the chance to be recognized by industry leaders and peers. Whether it’s digital, print, video, or experiential, we want to see the projects and campaigns that inspire and innovate. Submit now and join the celebration of creative excellence!
Not sure what or how to enter?
If you need help navigating the entry portal, the categories, or have any further questions, join any of our informational sessions or contact our team.
Winning an Addy doesn’t end with Seattle…
Your ADDY could win at the District XI competition in April or at the National Competition. To advance to the next level, all it takes is winning Gold or Silver at the previous level. Your entry is then eligible to proceed to the next level of the competition.
If you win a Gold or Silver Seattle ADDY, your entry automatically advances to the District XI competition.
If you win a Gold at the District level, your entry automatically advances to the National American Advertising Awards.
If you win a Silver at the District level, your entry can still advance to the National competition, but you will be required to pay a nominal forwarding fee. And it’s definitely worth it: Many district Silver winners have gone on to win Gold at Nationals!
Our American Advertising Awards team will be in touch with you every step of the way
Support the 2026 Awards Show Gala and Silver Medal Presentation event!
We’re seeking dedicated partners and volunteers to help make our Awards Show a success. If you or someone you know is interested, here are areas where your support is invaluable:
Award Show Volunteers: Assist with event operations and help run the show smoothly.
Event Sponsors: Gain visibility with a targeted audience passionate about creativity and advertising.
Event Photography: Capture the energy and highlights of the evening.
Event Video Coverage: Document the event for lasting impact.
Show Book Production: Create a professional keepsake that celebrates the work and the people behind it.
Winners Gallery Support: Showcase both the winners and your business in a prominent space.
Show Reels: Help us create dynamic reels that elevate the event’s energy.
Show Reel Voiceovers: Bring the reels to life with compelling narration.
Getting involved with AAF Seattle and the Awards process is a unique opportunity to demonstrate your expertise in front of an engaged creative community. Plus, our team is collaborative and easy to work with.
If you’re interested or have referrals, please reach out. Together, we can build an outstanding experience for Seattle’s advertising community.
Look back at the 2025 Awards Season
The Seattle Awards Celebration
The 2025 American Advertising Awards Seattle was one for the books—a sold-out celebration of creativity, community, and the incredible talent that powers our industry. After five years away from the stage, we came back stronger, louder, and prouder than ever. Here’s a look back at a night we won’t soon forget.
The National Awards Celebration
The in-person gala was held on June 6, 2025, at The Westin in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.