Fort Worth music awards open for nomination

The Fort Worth Weekly has launched the nomination phase for its annual Music Awards. The publication announced the schedule on Oct. 28, confirming that the process will run through the end of the year. This initiative separates the music category from the recently published Best Of issue, dedicating a full cycle to local artists.

Readers can submit nominations from Nov. 5 to Nov. 30. The ballot allows participants to write in their choices for specific categories. A wildcard field also exists for artists the publication might have overlooked. The format mirrors the standard Best Of ballot structure. One ballot is permitted per person during both the nomination and voting phases.

The selection process moves to a voting phase in December. Finalists will include the artists with the most nominations and additional picks from the Weekly’s music writers. Readers will choose their favorites from this final list throughout the month. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in the first quarter of 2027. The event will also induct new members into the Hall of Fame and honor deceased musicians.

The publication is releasing special holiday sections alongside the awards cycle. The Nov. 18 issue will feature a Thanksgiving resources section. Advertisers must submit materials by Nov. 17. The Nov. 25 issue will include a Turkey Awards segment and a Shop Local advertising section. The deadline for that issue is Nov. 23.

The Dec. 2 issue will contain a Gift Box section, which will run weekly until Dec. 23. The Holidays 2026 special issue will be printed on heavy stock paper and released on Dec. 9. It will include seasonal shopping and entertainment guides. Business owners can reserve space for that issue until Dec. 7. The final holiday issue on Dec. 23 will feature a center spread with New Year’s Eve party ideas.

The Weekly uses print, email, and social media channels for these campaigns. Standard advertising deadlines fall on Tuesdays, but special issues require earlier submission. Inquiries can be sent to marketing@fwweekly.com or through the website. The Music Awards nomination phase begins in less than a week, marking the start of the annual celebration of North Texas musicians.