Honorees are recognized through a $2,500 stipend, a video highlighting their achievements and a piece of artwork created by local artists which will include a plaque commemorating the award.
Mayor's Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture

Mayor Hancock speaks at a Mayor's Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture luncheon - Photo by Task Force ISO
MAYOR'S AWARDS
Celebrating Those Making an Impact in Denver through Arts & Culture
Since 1986, the Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture have annually recognized individuals and organizations that make significant and lasting contributions to the arts in the City and County of Denver.
The Awards

ARTS & CULTURE YOUTH AWARD
This award is presented to a person under the age of 24 who has made a noteworthy difference in the community through the arts or an organization that has significantly impacted the lives of youth in the City and County of Denver through the arts.

ARTS & CULTURE IMPACT AWARD
This award is presented to an individual or an organization that has made a significant and lasting impact on arts and culture in the City and County of Denver. This category requires that the nominee have at least 10 years of history in the arts in the City and County of Denver.

ARTS & CULTURE INNOVATION AWARD
This award is presented to an individual or organization that is breaking new ground in the arts and whose contribution to innovation in the arts has been significant in 2022 or 2023.

ARTS & CULTURE EDI AWARD
This award is presented to an individual or organization that has focused on equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) through their work. Nominees for this award may have worked to integrate an equity practice into their operations, developed a specific program that supports communities that have been historically marginalized including people of color, people with disabilities or members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, presented an event centered in social justice and the arts, or can demonstrate commitments and authentic partnerships with historically under-resourced communities.

ARTS & CULTURE GLOBAL AWARD
This award is presented to an individual or organization that has brought Denver’s arts and culture to the national or world stage. Nominees for this category have received national or international recognition through collaboration, media coverage or grant dollars received.
Arts and culture remind us of our shared humanity – they connect us, inspire us and build us up. They make our world better. Through arts, culture and creativity, we can envision a just, thriving future for our communities. Each year, our honorees epitomize those values.
- Former Mayor Michael B. Hancock


FAQ
How do I nominate someone for the Mayor's Awards?
Nominations and Applications for 2023 honorees are currently closed. Individuals may nominate an individual or organization through a simple form and Arts & Venues will follow up with the nominee for more information. Alternatively, individuals and groups may apply for an award directly.
When is the awards ceremony?
The awards ceremony usually takes place in November or December.
Questions?
For more information, please contact Sonia Rae, Cultural Affairs Program Manager.