Lexington Chamber Announces LEXPO “Best of Show” Honorees

Lexington, SC 02/17/2026 – The Lexington business community "Scored Big" this year as the Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center hosted its most vibrant LEXPO business trade show to date. On Thursday, February 12, the Barr Road Sports Complex was transformed into a high-energy arena of commerce and community spirit, drawing a large crowd of over 725 attendees who came out to support and celebrate the business community.

Embracing this year’s high-octane sports theme, the energy was electric as more than 90 exhibitors—ranging from small startups to established corporations—competed for the coveted "Best of Show" and "Most Spirited" awards. Over half of the participants went all-out, donning jerseys and creating elaborate, sports-inspired booth displays that showcased the creativity and competitive fire of the Midlands' business scene.

The Chamber is thrilled to announce this year’s award recipients, who truly knocked it out of the park with their creativity and spirit. Leading the pack as the Best of Show winners were The Guttermen/Palmetto Creek Property Maintenance, who wowed the judges with an incredible, custom-designed outdoor landscape display. Taking home the Best of Show Runner-Up honors was Absolute Glass for their concessions themed booth, complete with popcorn, peanuts and cracker jacks! Community favorite Mission Lexington earned the Most Spirited award for their “Mission Mania” wrestling theme, which was a “knock-out,” followed closely by Whataburger, who claimed the Most Spirited Runner-Up title. They offered tasty food, a game for prizes and swag, and brought their “What-A-Guy” mascot. Additionally, we were excited to recognize Krantz Kooling & Heating was named as the “Rookie of the Year.” They were first-time participants who made their debut with a fun, race car theme.

Beyond the competition, the event featured the fan-favorite "Flavors of Lexington," where guests sampled the best of the local culinary scene. From the bold tastes of Ember Lexington, Mediterranean Café, Old Mill Brew Pub, and Salsaritas, to the classic comforts of Travinia Italian Kitchen, Whataburger, Biggby Coffee and Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q, the evening was a true testament to the diverse and thriving hospitality industry in Lexington.

“The Chamber is dedicated to showcasing the unique products and services of our diverse business members, and this year’s LEXPO exceeded every expectation,” said Angelle LaBorde, Chamber President & CEO. “With hundreds of businesses and residents in attendance, the evening was a powerful reminder of how much our community values its local businesses. The atmosphere was lively, the engagement was high, and the spirit of Lexington was on full display.”

Presented by more than 30 corporate and executive-level sponsors, LEXPO continues its decade-long legacy as the premier event for connecting consumers with the local businesses that drive our economy forward.