Page 20 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2026

COAST NOTE
Five Years of Celebrating
THE BEST OF SOUTH MISSISSIPPI
story and photo courtesy of WXXV
In just five years, the WXXV Viewers’ Choice Awards have generated more than 185,000 nominations and nearly 685,000 votes, becoming the Gulf Coast’s largest celebration of local businesses.
What started as a simple effort to recognize outstanding local businesses has grown into a community tradition that spans the Mississippi Gulf Coast, shining a spotlight on the restaurants, retailers, healthcare providers, service professionals, nonprofits, and organizations that help make South Mississippi a great place to live, work, and visit.
Beginning July 7, residents will once again have the opportunity to nominate their favorite local businesses and professionals across dozens of categories. The top nominees will advance to the voting round, where the community will help determine who earns the title of South Mississippi’s best.
“For five years, our community has embraced the Viewers’ Choice Awards in a way we could have never imagined,” said Michelle Eubank, Digital Sales Manager at WXXV. “The incredible number of nominations and votes we’ve received reflects just how passionate South Mississippians are about supporting local businesses. We are honored by that support and excited to introduce new features and opportunities as we celebrate our fifth year.”
The 2026 Viewers’ Choice Awards will culminate with the annual awards gala on October 29 at Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi, bringing together finalists, winners, and community leaders for an evening dedicated to celebrating local excellence.
Mark your calendars and get ready to support your favorites. Nominations
for the 2026 WXXV Viewers’ Choice Awards officially open July 7.
Because no one knows South Mississippi better than the people who call it home.
Scan to Nominate Your Favorite Local Businesses!
20 | July 2026
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