American Advertising Awards
The American Advertising Awards is the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition in the United States. The mission of the American Advertising Awards competition is to recognize and reward the creative spirit of excellence in the art of advertising.
About The Competition
Entering the American Advertising Awards supports the entire advertising industry, because the AAF and its local and district affiliates use the proceeds to enhance advertising through programs such as public service, professional development, internships, advocacy groups, advertising education, and consumer awareness.
The American Advertising Awards Student Division is also a three-tier national competition, which is sponsored by the AAF. Occurring in conjunction with the professional competition, the Student Awards recognize and reward creative excellence by students.
2026 DETAILS
Entry Portal Opens: October 16, 2025
Local Entry Deadline: Varies by market, find your chapter here.
District Forwarding Deadline: April 3, 2026
National Forwarding Deadline: April 15, 2026
Everything You Need to Know
How do the American Advertising Awards work?
The American Advertising Awards are a three-tier, national competition.
At the first tier, brands and agencies from across the country vie to win an ADDY in their local competition.
At the second tier, local ADDY winners compete against other local capters in their respective District. District 15's competition covers Southern California and Southern Nevada.
District ADDY winners are then forwarded to the third and final tier, the national competition, competing against the best creative from across the country.
However, the only way to win a National ADDY is to enter your local competition!
Is there a student competition?
Yes! At the same time of the professional competition, there's a student competition.
The students have a dedicated competition, so they do not compete against entries in the professional competition. They follow the same three-tier structure, though.
Who are the judges?
The judges are top advertising professionals with experience in creating or reviewing creative work and integrated campaigns.
Each tier has different judges, as does each local and district competition. Judges are sourced from across the country to ensure a representative jury.
What markets compete in District 15?
In the second tier of the competition, the following markets compete in District 15:
- Los Angeles
- Orange County
- Inland Empire
- San Diego
- Palm Desert
- Las Vegas
To find your local competition details, find your local chapter website here.
