Gather to recognize and celebrate Excalibur and Excelsior award nominees and winners, those who exemplify excellence in community service!
Celebrating the Best and Brightest of Northern Illinois
The annual Excalibur & Excelsior Award Ceremony returns this December. Once again, we will gather to brighten our spirits by celebrating good work and giving back, and to recognize people and organizations who put our communities first.
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2026
Time: Social hour 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Ceremony 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie Street, Rockford, IL 61107. Open theater style seating and cocktail tables; Cocktail attire or holiday party attire is encouraged.
Tickets: There is no cost to attend this event, but RSVPs are required. Heavy appetizers and select libations included; cash bar available. Check in with your hosts upon arrival for your free drink ticket!
Attire: Cocktail/Holiday Party
Since 1971, the Excalibur Award has honored an individual who exemplifies excellence in community service. Joined in 1979 by the Excelsior Award, which recognizes an organization of the same merit, these annual tributes to service above self have uplifted countless stories of not just greatness, but goodness.
In addition to the Excalibur & Excelsior Awards, the event will feature four awards recognizing Community Champions, either individuals or organizations, from the four counties of our region (Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago). These awards were added in 2023 to celebrate the good work happening across our region.
Awards made to individuals include a cash prize to support the organization of their choice, and awards to organizations include a cash prize to support their ongoing good work.