Downtown Inc is pleased to announce the winners of the 26th Annual Downtown First Awards, held at The Appell Center for the Performing Arts on the evening of Thursday, August 13, 2026. The winners from each category represent exceptional businesses, organizations, and individuals who have put Downtown York first, through their commitments of time, advocacy, and resources.
The event was made possible through the sponsorship of The Glatfelter Agency.
The 26th Annual Downtown First Awards winners celebrate individuals, businesses, and organizations in eight categories:
Downtown Revitalization Award Presented by the Redevelopment Authority of the City of York
Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop: Founded by Christopher J. Beers, Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop has quickly become a downtown destination for both residents and visitors. In less than a year, it welcomed more than 70,000 guests, transforming a prominent corner of Continental Square into a vibrant attraction. With its colorful storefront and nostalgic charm, Grandpa Joe’s is proving the power of destination retail—bringing thousands of visitors to the heart of York and helping drive downtown’s continued momentum.
Historically Edgy Destination Award Presented by Explore York
The Handsome Cab: Since opening a decade ago, The Handsome Cab, owned by Robert Godfrey and Andrew D’Agenais, has served as a destination for entertainment, tourism, and marketing. Over the last year, they skyrocketed this effort by creating signature events such as Champagne Fest, curated themed dinners, Art & Chocolate Crawls, and their annual Downtown Strolls, attracting nearly 5,000 visitors from a tri-state area, and even as far away as Alabama, Texas, and even Peru. Through innovative event programming, destination marketing, and strong community partnerships, these visitors experience dozens of fellow downtown businesses and elevate Downtown York’s reputation as a blooming regional destination that drives economic impact throughout the community.
Downtown Champion Award Presented by Pennsylvania American Water
Cindy Burkholder: A proud Downtown York resident and longtime member of the York Revolution team, Cindy has spent nearly 15 years making a meaningful impact through quiet, consistent leadership and service. From volunteering behind the scenes at downtown events like Sip & Savor, and supporting public safety initiatives like lighting audits, she is always willing to lend a hand. Even on her daily walks with her dog Potato Cindy carries trash grabbers to help keep downtown clean. Her unwavering pride, generosity, and hands-on commitment embody the spirit of civic stewardship and make her an invaluable champion for Downtown York.
Flavors of Downtown Award Presented by Yohn Property Management
Splitshift: More than a restaurant and bar, Splitshift has become one of Downtown York’s favorite gathering places, known for exceptional hospitality, outstanding food, and a welcoming atmosphere. From popular drag bingo and brunch to crowd-favorite pizza, wings, craft beer, and creative cocktails, Splitshift creates experiences that keep people coming back. Their fun, inclusive approach has built a loyal following and made them a go-to destination for friends, families, coworkers, and visitors alike—strengthening Downtown York’s reputation as a vibrant place to dine, connect, and celebrate.
Cultural Catalyst Award Presented by Comcast
Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center: Driven by the vision of Crispus Attucks President & CEO Bobby Simpson, the Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center opened on May 2 this year, transforming a long-held dream into one of York’s newest cultural landmarks. Brought from concept to reality in just 18 months, the Center preserves and celebrates the stories, achievements, and legacy of York’s Black community through immersive exhibits and meaningful experiences. More than a museum, it is a lasting investment in education, heritage tourism, and cultural preservation—ensuring these stories inspire residents and visitors for generations to come.
Collaborative Impact Award Presented by Buchart Horn, Inc
The Garden of Edy: Through creative storytelling and a genuine passion for York’s small businesses and neighborhoods, The Garden of Edy has become a trusted voice for showcasing what makes our city special. By highlighting local makers, merchants, and hidden gems, Edy helps residents and visitors discover new places, support entrepreneurs, and connect with the people behind the businesses. Her engaging social media reels bring attention to Beaver Street, while her partnership with neighboring merchants helps drive excitement for First Friday and the unique experiences found throughout Downtown York.
Small Business, Big Impact Award Presented by Shipley Energy
Sweet Mama’s Mambo Sauce & Catering: From launching a beloved sauce brand at Central Market to building a catering company serving clients across the region, owner and chef Jen Heasley has turned passion into a thriving business. As the first recipient of a BLOOM Business Empowerment Center loan, she has grown her brand through culinary excellence, community connections, and national recognition—including catering for Penn State Football, Governors Wolf and Shapiro, Robert Irvine, and appearances on the BBC and Pennsylvania Farm Show. This year she launched a YouTube cooking channel and Sweet Mama’s Supper Club, continuing to share her talent and stories, proving that a York entrepreneur can make a national impact while staying rooted in the community.
Appell Beautification Award Presented by Better York
Y Community Development Corporation Lighting Project: Through visionary leadership and a commitment to neighborhood investment, Y Community Development Corporation recognized the need for improved lighting and public safety around its headquarters at Philadelphia and Newberry Streets—and took action. By leveraging state funding and local partnerships, YCDC expanded its focus beyond its own property to deliver streetlights and infrastructure improvements that benefit residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the area. This investment created a safer, more welcoming corridor and demonstrated the power of organizations stepping up to strengthen the neighborhoods they call home.
Downtown Inc also recognized a business within the city who have been in business for over 100 years. This year we were thrilled to celebrate WellSpan Health – York Hospital.
“Every year, the Downtown First Awards give us an opportunity to pause and recognize the people who are doing the day-to-day work of making Downtown York a better place,” says Sarah O’Brien, Director of Downtown Inc. “What stands out to me is how much of Downtown York’s success comes from people who care deeply about this community and are willing to roll up their sleeves, take a chance, and work together to make things happen. This year’s awardees represent that spirit, and I’m proud to celebrate the contributions they’re making to our downtown.”
Echoing these sentiments, President & CEO of the York County Economic Alliance, Kevin Schreiber shares, “This event is always a showcase of positive energy in our community and the best celebration of our newest businesses, and our most tenured, and all those in between who make things happen each and every day for Downtown York.”
In total, over 90 nominations were received across the eight categories. The winners for each category were selected from three finalists.
