Beyond Darklands

This isn’t your typical awards show

It’s loud, unapologetic and a clear reminder that the gay fetish scene isn’t just alive. It’s here to stay. Between the awards, expect surprise performances, bold moments and maybe even a blush or two. Nothing is off-limits and nothing is watered down.

The awards

  • Person Of The Year
  • Fetish Association Of The Year
  • Small-Scale Fetish Event Of The Year
  • Large-Scale Fetish Event Of The Year
  • Fetish Party Concept Of The Year
  • Bar Of The Year
  • DJ Of The Year
  • Fetish Content Creator Of The Year
  • Fetish Film Of The Year
  • Fetish Retailer Of The Year
  • Fetish Media Of The Year

How it works

It’s loud, unapologetic and a clear reminder that the gay fetish scene isn’t just alive. It’s here to stay. Between the awards, expect surprise performances, bold moments and maybe even a blush or two. Nothing is off-limits and nothing is watered down.

You’re invited to nominate

Members of the public are invited to nominate individuals, brands and organisations for the X-Awards. Submissions are possible until Friday 9 January 2026.

Entries assessed and shortlisted

From hundreds of submissions, the 50-member X-Awards Committee selects four finalists in each category.

Voting

The final vote is in the hands of the community. Voting is opened from 21 to 30 January 2026 (12 pm). Winners will be announced during the live X-Awards show on Sunday 8 March 2026 at Beyond Darklands.

Nominate

Know someone who made a difference in the fetish community?

Submit your nominations before Friday 9 January
and help us recognize the people, brands and events that truly matter.

Make a nomination

Results 2025

These are the winners of the X-Awards 2025.

Person Of The Year
Tom Keller

Fetish Association Of The Year
Manchester Leathermen

Small-Scale Fetish Event Of The Year
Dublin Leather Weekend

Large-Scale Fetish Event Of The Year
Folsom Europe

Fetish Party Concept Of The Year
Leather Cruise at Underground

DJ Of The Year
Alejandro Alvarez

Fetish Content Creator Of The Year
Watts The Safeword

Fetish Film Of The Year
Darklands: Are you ready to go deep?

Fetish Retailer Of The Year
RoB Amsterdam

Fetish Media Of The Year
Into The Darkroom