Celebrating the Best of the Chippewa Valley
and the Chippewa Valley Vanguard Awards
This is not your typical awards show. In fact, it’s not really an awards show at all.
It’s a creative, dynamic, and interactive cocktail party — a celebratory evening of food, drinks, music, technology, art, and camaraderie. A chance to celebrate the very best of the Chippewa Valley.
SATURDAY, FEB 7, 2026
at the Lismore Halls, downtown Eau Claire
| VIP EVENT | 6:00pm - 7:00pm |
| MAIN EVENT | 7:00pm - 10:00pm |
this is a 21+ event
GET TICKETS
There are two ticket types: VIP and MAIN EVENT. VIP includes everything from MAIN EVENT, plus early access to the VIP hour 6:00-7:00pm, and other great stuff listed below.
|
VIP Event Starts 6:00pm $75 advance |
Main Event 7:00-10:00pm $45 advance |
Ticket price includes all food, entertainment, and attractions!
VIP ticket also includes:
- Early access to parking and party at 6:00
- Two free drink tickets for beer, wine, or soda*, plus one free special VIP cocktail during VIP hour 6:00-7:00
- Bonus gourmet appetizers
- Limited VIP tickets available
*free drink tickets do not include cocktails or thc drinks
FOOD & DRINK
Samples of the Valley’s best food & drink offerings
Heavy hors d’oeuvres & tastings from a dozen local establishments
Two wine, beer, and cocktail cash bars
Free tastings provided by River Bend Winery & Distillery
NEW THIS YEAR! THC/CBD beverages provided by Steve’s Hemp
EVENT SPONSORS
EVENT SUPPORT
Furniture by
Furniture by
Accessories by
The party goes on as we honor individuals making a substantial impact on our community.
Vanguard Awards Video
Recognizing high-level community achievers who’ve made a significant local impact in one of a broad spectrum of areas including the arts, entrepreneurship, social action, government, education, philanthropy, health, business and more.
Do I need to be a Best-Of winner to attend?
The event is a celebration of the Best of the Chippewa Valley that anyone can attend.
What should I wear?
This event is a great excuse to get out your cocktail attire: shorter, party-ready dress, such as a little black dress or even dressy separates like a skirt and blouse. A dark suit worn with a tie or a nice dress shirt and slacks would also look great. Basically, “cocktail attire” is less dressy than “formal” attire and much more casual than "black tie”.
Should I eat dinner before I come?
We have a dozen local establishments sampling a signature menu item. You could definitely fill up with a sample from each one. But, if you are worried you’ll spend all your time mingling with friends, then go ahead an have that snack before coming to the party.
Where do I park?
It’s probably best to park in the ramp attached to the Lismore Hotel. It’s the best way to enjoy some real city livin’, and it gets you closest to the action. The entrance to the party is under the parking ramp.
Should I wear my coat?
Yes, there will be a coat check! However, it will always be faster to skip the line on the way in and out by leaving your coat in the car if you can. That’s what a true Wisconsinite would do. A lot of people will be arriving and departing at the same time, so please be patient with our coat checkers!
Do I need to bring any cash?
Yep, if you want to grab a drink at one of the bars or from a roving beer vendor, you’ll need some extra cash. All food and entertainment is included in your ticket.
What if I won a Best Of award - can I pick it up at the party?
Congrats! You sure can! If you would like to order an upgraded wood award, you can do that right here »
Questions? Email events@volumeone.org(Amanda Polden,).
presented by Volume One Magazine - Eau Claire, WI