Awards open for public vote until 30th November:
From 18th September through to 21st October we sought public nominations for East Belfast's 'Favourites' across a number of categories. We were inundated with nominations via Belfast Live and we have narrowed each category down to five nominees in each category (with the most nominations). Nominees will now be but put out to a public vote from 21st Oct – 30th November for the public to decide on their finalists and winner. The top three finalists will be announced, along with the other shortlisted finalists, at the beginning of December. The winner, with the most votes, will be announced live at the awards ceremony on Friday 31st January 2025. Voting has officially opened so vote for your favourites now!
The Eastside Award for Favourite Primary Classroom Assistant of the Year
This is a classroom assistant who works at primary level within the education sector, who goes above and beyond in their everyday duties to make a positive impact and contribution to the school in which they work, for the benefit of pupils, staff and the wider community.
The Eastside Award for Favourite Post-Primary School Hero of the Year 
This is an unsung hero who is not in a teaching role, but who works at post-primary level within the education sector who goes above and beyond in their everyday duties to make a positive impact and contribution to the school in which they work, for the benefit of pupils, staff and the wider community. This could include (but not limited to), nominations for administration staff, bus drivers, catering staff, caretakers who work within an education provision in East Belfast.
The Eastside Award for Favourite Food Destination in East Belfast
Voting is now open for East Belfast's Favourite Food Destination. This includes nominations for establishments (including cafes, bars and restaurants) who are primarily involved in the provision of one or more dining experiences within East Belfast and the Greater East Belfast areas.
The Eastside Award for Favourite Hairdresser/Barber in East Belfast
Vote for your favourite hairdresser/barber within the East Belfast and the Greater East Belfast Areas. This includes all businesses in East Belfast that offer services to hair. 
The Eastside Award for Favourite Beauty Business in East Belfast
Vote for your favourite beauty business within the East Belfast and the Greater East Belfast areas. This includes all businesses in East Belfast that offer services to health, beauty & complementary services and tanning.
The Eastside Award for Volunteer of the Year
Vote for a volunteer who goes above and beyond and who demonstrates a commitment to an individual or organisation that contributes positively to the life of East Belfast or Greater East Belfast Area.
The Eastside Award for Favourite Sports Coach/Trainer of the Year
Vote for your favourite Sports Coach/Trainer of the Year in East Belfast. This is an individual who coaches/trains individuals or a team and who goes the extra mile to make a positive impact and contribution to the individuals and wider community.