First Annual North County Arts Awards

The California Center for the Arts, Escondido (CCAEF) proudly announces the launch of the first-ever North County Arts Awards, a prestigious new event celebrating the remarkable talent and creativity found throughout North County San Diego. This exciting initiative will honor individuals across 18 categories in both visual, culinary and performing arts, culminating in a formal black-tie awards dinner on June 28, 2025, at the CCAE Conference Center.

Nominations open on May 12 and will close on June 1, 2025. Community members are invited to submit write-in nominations, with the top five nominees in each category—based on the number of nominations received—advancing as finalists. A selection committee composed of respected leaders in the arts and civic sectors will determine the final award recipients.

Nominees must be individuals or organizations based in North County San Diego (excluding the City of San Diego proper), reinforcing the awards' mission to uplift and spotlight regional talent often underrepresented in larger arts conversations.

As the host and presenting organization, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido is exempt from nomination. This intentional choice reflects the Center’s commitment to providing a professional and inclusive platform for others to be recognized and celebrated.

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