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KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow.com) Local businesses and community favorites took center stage Wednesday evening as Keene’s Best brought together more than 200 guests at Stonewall Farm to celebrate the people and organizations that help make the Monadnock Region a vibrant place to live and work.
The annual event featured an evening of food, drinks and entertainment as attendees recognized winners across 182 categories, ranging from dining and health care to home services and automotive care.
Hosted by Monadnock Media Group, Keene’s Best gives residents an opportunity to nominate and vote for their favorite local businesses and services. Nominations opened in June, with community members helping determine this year’s winners through a public voting process.
The 2026 contest drew more than 1,164 nominees and generated approximately 73,000 votes, reflecting strong community support for businesses throughout the region.
“This magazine is a testament to the community’s effort to recognize and celebrate the businesses, people, and places we hold dear — chosen by you, our loyal audience,” said Randy Cable, vice president and general manager of Monadnock Media Group, in his introduction to the sixth edition of the Keene’s Best magazine.
Cable said the program was created to support businesses throughout the Monadnock Region and recognize the establishments that contribute to the strength and character of local communities.
Monadnock Media Group operates eight radio stations across the Monadnock Region and beyond. The company also operates My Keene Now (mykeenenow.com), a local news website providing free, hyperlocal news and information.
Fidium Fiber returned as the presenting sponsor for the 2026 Keene’s Best program. Cable thanked the company and other advertisers for their support in making the annual contest possible.
Food was a highlight of Wednesday’s celebration, with Mama McDonough’s Restaurant of Keene providing a charcuterie and dessert presentation and Guerilla Grill, also of Keene, serving a buffet-style meal.
Guests also had the opportunity to commemorate the evening through a photo experience provided by The Luxury Box, a local company operated by Ryan Watterson and Melissa Alexander. Groups of up to 15 people could pose with their awards in front of a Keene’s Best-branded backdrop and receive printed photos on site.
Cable encouraged residents to explore the winners and support their businesses, whether by reconnecting with familiar favorites or discovering new local establishments.
The annual program gives community members a direct role in recognizing local excellence while helping connect residents with the businesses and services that serve the Monadnock Region.
Residents can find the winners and learn more about the program at KeenesBest.com.