Join the Excitement: Vote for Your Favorite Small Towns
Spotlight your favorite communities across the country and be entered to win a trip valued at up to $1,500!
Voting has officially started in the America's Favorite Small Towns competition, proudly presented by Parade and Steller, two well-known names celebrating the charm of small communities. This initiative invites voters to elevate towns with populations under 250,000, leading up to a remarkable anniversary.
The Celebration of Community
The America’s Favorite Small Towns competition aims to recognize and honor the distinctive character of various communities throughout the U.S. As the nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this competition highlights the essence of what makes small towns unforgettable.
What You Need to Know
Participating is easy and rewarding! Voters can support their towns by visiting the official website and casting their votes until early spring 2026. Each day, you can cast one vote per town, helping boost their visibility to potential travelers.
For those interested, the process is quite simple. All you need to do is choose the town's region and state and enter your email address. With each vote, not only do you raise awareness for your chosen town, but you also get a chance to win a fantastic trip worth $1,500.
The Impact of Voting on Small Towns
Your vote plays a crucial role in the journey toward securing the title of America’s Favorite Small Town, amplifying exposure to potentially over 130 million travelers via Parade.com, Steller.co, and their social media. Your active participation directly benefits these towns, showcasing them in front of eager audiences, tourists, and local adventurers alike.
Lisa Delaney, General Manager and Chief Content Officer of Parade, emphasizes the value of small towns, stating, "Small towns are the heart of our country, filled with stories and traditions that bring people together—something Parade has been celebrating for more than 80 years. Now, people across the U.S. have a chance to support these communities and show why their town deserves to be called America's favorite."
Additional Entries Welcome
The competition is still accepting entries! Any town with fewer than 250,000 residents can submit their application until January 2026. This applies not only to towns but also involves states, Destination Marketing Organizations, Convention and Visitor Bureaus, and Chambers of Commerce, all eager to showcase the beauty of their communities.
CEO Pete Bryant of Steller notes, "The entries we've received highlight how special and diverse small towns across the U.S. really are, from mountain towns to coastal gems and charming main streets. We're thrilled that voting is now open, allowing travelers and locals alike to be part of celebrating the best of small-town America."
Looking Ahead: The Competition Journey
The voting process will dictate which towns advance to the final round, set to be announced in the spring. The finalists will find themselves featured in Parade’s much-anticipated special print issue, alongside coverage on Parade and Steller’s digital platforms. State winners will be declared on June 1, with the national champion unveiled on June 12.
The ultimate winner will enjoy fantastic benefits, which include:
- Free advertising placement in a special Parade print issue.
- The ability to promote their achievement with the “Favorite Small Town in America” badge.
- An activation event with Steller at the town's July 4th celebration, with opportunities for celebrity appearances and national media coverage.
Be part of the excitement! Each vote you cast not only supports your town but also enriches the stories woven throughout America’s small towns.
About Steller
Steller is recognized as a leading travel planning platform, dedicated to transitioning travelers from inspiration to the booking stage, all grounded in authentic experiences. The platform showcases millions of unique travel videos from beloved creators. For more details, check out the Steller app.
About Parade
Parade has been a trusted name in entertainment and lifestyle for over 80 years, enhancing the lives of its audience through engaging content and meaningful stories. Owned by The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE American: AREN), Parade is committed to connecting audiences with enriching experiences. Explore more about their journey on their official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the America's Favorite Small Towns competition?
The competition celebrates small towns in the U.S. with populations under 250,000, inviting people to vote for their favorites.
How can I participate in voting?
Visit the competition's website, select a town, and enter your email to vote. You can vote once a day!
What do voters receive for participating?
Each vote increases the town's visibility and enters the voter for a chance to win a trip valued at $1,500.
Are towns still able to enter the competition?
Yes, towns under 250,000 residents can still enter until January 2026.
When will the winners be announced?
The state winners will be announced on June 1, and the national winner will be revealed on June 12, 2026.
