2026 Options Awards Nominations

Rhode Island offers many options for queer and trans people. But which one is the best? Who deserves the Options Awards in bartending or real estate? Well, Options Magazine is inviting readers to nominate their favorite local places and people for the fifth annual Options Awards!

Nominations are open until August 15th. Finalists will be notified that week if they want to be considered for an Options Award. Voting for finalists will take place from early September through the end of September. Winners will be announced at a public celebration in October.

To be eligible for a nomination, a person, place, event, business, or organization must be based in or operate within Rhode Island. Individuals can vote once per valid email address per day, and voting requires subscribing to Options' free newsletter. Nominations are not required in every category. For more details, visit optionsnewsri.org.

People

The Options Awards People's section includes activists, local heroes, and allies. Who do you think is the Rhode Island LGBTQ hero of the year?

Sports And Fitness

The best places to work out, play sports, and people to help you get fit.

Nightlife

The best LGBTQ-friendly clubs, bars, and events in Rhode Island.

Food and Drink

Best in restaurants and service.

Media

Best media outlets and media personalities.

Community

Community groups, events, and local businesses.