23 - 27 August 2026
San Diego, California, US

SPIE Society Annual Awards Banquet at SPIE Optics + Photonics

Make plans to attend this year's gala awards event

What are the SPIE Society Awards?

Each year SPIE hosts the Awards Banquet at its Optics + Photonics meeting in San Diego. It is our honor to recognize each recipient for technical accomplishments as well as committed service to SPIE and support of its organizational mission.

August 26, Reception 6-7 PM and
Banquet 7-9 PM

Get ready for the 2026 event!
All are welcome.
Enjoy drinks, appetizers, dinner, and dessert, all included in the price of your ticket. Transportation is provided.

Award presenter handing an award to the recipient at the 2024 SPIE Society Awards Banquet


The Society Awards honor exceptional contributions to optics and photonics. 

Recognizing transformative advancements in a variety of professional areas — including medicine, astronomy, lithography, optical metrology, optical design, and community leadership.
View the 2026 recipients list.

Meet EVE - The 2026 banquet venue

Nestled atop the Edge building on North Harbor Drive, this brand-new space offers breathtaking 270-degree views of San Diego Bay, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration.

Wednesday, August 26
Reception 6-7 PM and Banquet 7-9 PM

The beautiful exterior of the EVE venue the location for the 2026 SPIE Optics+ Photonics Society Awards Banquest