The City of Yuma’s Arts and Culture Division invites the community to celebrate the arts in Yuma as the 26th annual Tribute of the Muses awards ceremony returns Friday, November 20, 2026, at the Historic Yuma Theatre (254 S. Main Street). Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 7 p.m., followed by a ticketed Black-Tie Soirée and Silent Auction beginning at 8:15 p.m.
Now in its 26th year, this annual event honors individuals and organizations whose passion, vision, and dedication have advanced the arts in Yuma. This year’s celebration will feature a “Tea Party” theme, adding a creative element to an evening recognizing Yuma’s arts community.
The awards ceremony is free and open to the public. Tickets for the Black-Tie Soirée and Silent Auction are $25 per person and will be available soon.
“As we celebrate the 26th Annual Tribute of the Muses, we look forward to recognizing the individuals and organizations who continue to make a meaningful impact on the arts in our community,” said Ana Padilla, Cultural Affairs Manager. “This event is an opportunity to give them the recognition they deserve and celebrate their dedication and contributions.”
Nominations are now open for all four award categories: the Tribute of the Muses Award, Helios Award, Odyssey Award, and Apollo Award. Forms and details are available at the following links:
The City is also seeking local artists to create a custom art piece to be presented to this year’s Muse Award recipient. Artists can submit proposals here.
The deadline to submit proposals and award nominations is 5 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2026.
The Tribute of the Muses Award honors an outstanding member of Yuma’s arts community who has demonstrated remarkable dedication and excellence in the arts. Nominees may be recognized for achievements in their artistic field, arts advocacy, philanthropy, and/or arts education, with at least five years of contributions to Yuma’s arts community.
Award winners will be announced during the ceremony at the Historic Yuma Theatre. Following the ceremony, the celebration will continue with the Black-Tie Soirée and Silent Auction at the adjacent Yuma Art Center. The silent auction will feature art pieces donated by artists throughout the year, with proceeds benefiting arts and culture programming at the theatre and art center.
For more information about the event, nominations, or the call to artists, visit YumaAz.gov/Tribute or call 928-373-5202.
