The 2026 WAVE Awards
Web · Audio · Visual Excellence

The WAVE Awards

The 2026 Season

Pour the Old Fashioneds, pass the relish tray, and pull up a chair at the knotty pine bar — we're scouting the finest media work from our colleagues in and around Madison.

Early Bird OpensJuly 17
Show NightThu, Nov 12
Before You Order

The House Rules

Projects CreatedEligibility window
Aug 1 '25 – Jul 31 '26
Early Bird OpensBest price on entries begins
July 17
Early Bird SpecialBest price on entries ends
Aug 17
How to Enter

The Wine List

Submit Your Order

Enter via FilmFreeway

Browse this year's categories and place your order through FilmFreeway. New to the club? Create an account and your information is saved for next time — enter a little at a time, no rush.

Watch the Tutorial

Be sure to describe any challenges you faced and how the piece was used — especially in the craft categories. And list everyone you want credited; it's what goes on the printed award.

Pull Up a Chair

Reservations

The Regular

Professional Submissions

Early Bird Special
$70$60
Regular pricing kicks in after Aug 17
Submit an Entry
The Future Chef

Student Submissions

Early Bird Special
$20$15
Regular pricing kicks in after Aug 17
Submit an Entry

Silent Auction

Our popular Silent Auction funds a $1,000 scholarship for students pursuing careers in media communications. Donate a hard item — electronics, artwork, event tickets, and gift baskets are the house favorites. (Spa treatments are the one service we'll allow.)

Donate an Item

WAVE Sponsors

Get your name on the menu at our most attended event of the year. Become a WAVE Sponsor and put your company in front of the room.

See Sponsor Packages