Did we mention the marching band?

More than 1,880 people have voted in the 2009 New England Art Awards. Now the winners will be announced at the New England Art Awards Ball at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 8, 2010, at the Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville, Massachusetts. As if that weren’t enticing enough, the terrific Second Line Social Aid and Pleasure Society Brass Band of Cambridge, Massachusetts, will open the ceremony. And you are invited!

Admission is free and all are welcome. Creative attire is encouraged. As are giant foam hand cheering mitts.

The awards are a contest organized by The New England Journal of Aesthetic Research to honor the best art made in New England and exhibits organized here in 2009. More details about how it works here. Read the final ballot here.