Big Wins for Bristol at the Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards

BRISTOL, Va. – The city of Bristol is buzzing with excitement after a string of wins at the annual Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards Ceremony, held this past Wednesday in Wytheville, Virginia. This event, organized by the Virginia Tourism Corporation, Friends of Southwest Virginia, and Visit Wytheville, celebrates outstanding achievements within the region’s tourism sector.

This year’s ceremony saw Bristol entities shine brightly. “Explore Bristol,” “The Birthplace of Country Music,” and “The Sessions Hotel” each took home prestigious awards, highlighting their contributions to the vibrant tourism landscape of Southwest Virginia.

Kim Davis, Executive Director of Friends of Southwest Virginia, emphasized the importance of these awards, saying, “Celebrating the contributions and accomplishments of our tourism partners is vital. Tourism is a key economic driver in Southwest Virginia and we’re thrilled to acknowledge these outstanding leaders who tirelessly showcase and market our region to travelers.”

Highlights of the Winners

The awards covered various categories, recognizing efforts in tourism marketing, visitor services, events, and leadership. Winners were chosen from 65 nominations by a panel of tourism professionals from across the Southeastern United States and an international judge from England.

• Outstanding Accommodation of the Year: The Sessions Hotel
• Outstanding Attraction of the Year: Birthplace of Country Music Museum
• Best Social Media Campaign: Explore Bristol
• Best PR Campaign: Birthplace of Country Music for “I’ve Endured: Women In Old-Time Music”
• Best Overall Destination Marketing Campaign: Explore Bristol
• Best Video for an Event (Budget $50,000 or more): Birthplace of Country Music for “Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion 2023 Re-cap video”
• Best Short Video (Budget $50,000 or more): Explore Bristol for “A Classic Christmas in Bristol”
• Best Print Ad (Budget $50,000 or more): Explore Bristol for Tri-Cities Airport ad
• Best Visitor Guide: Explore Bristol
• Outstanding Tourism Leader: Pam Cox, Scott County Tourism
• Executive of the Year: Rosa Lee Jude, Visit Wytheville
• Outstanding Festival of the Year (less than 10,000 attendees): Old Town Revival
• Outstanding Festival of the Year (more than 10,000 attendees): Chautauqua Festival
• Best New Website (Budget less than $50,000): Visit Tazewell County
• Best Video Series (tie): PBS Appalachia Virginia, “Hometowns of Central Appalachia”
• Best Video Series (tie): Smyth County Tourism Association, “We are Smyth Strong”
• Best Long Video (Budget less than $50,000): Smyth County Tourism Association, “Smyth County: Come See Why”
• Best Rack Card or Brochure (Budget $50,000 or more): Smyth County Tourism Association for “Fish Blue Ridge Brochure”
• Best Rack Card or Brochure (Budget less than $50,000): Russell County Tourism Department for “Experience Russell County Adventure Guide”

The Impact on Bristol

The recognition brings a spotlight to Bristol’s thriving attractions and its pivotal role in shaping the tourism experience in Southwest Virginia. The awarded organizations were lauded not just for their commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region, but also for their innovative marketing efforts.

The Sessions Hotel standing out as the Outstanding Accommodation of the Year underscores its exceptional service and unique offering to visitors. This win is a testament to the high standards and quality that guests can expect when staying in Bristol.

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum continues to enhance its reputation, securing awards for both Outstanding Attraction of the Year and the Best PR Campaign. Their campaign, “I’ve Endured: Women In Old-Time Music,” has not only grabbed the top spot but also emphasized the museum’s role in celebrating and amplifying the diverse voices within the genre.

A Look Forward

With the accolades received, Bristol’s tourism sector is poised for even greater growth. These wins highlight a community effort that blends creative marketing with exceptional visitor experiences, ensuring that Bristol remains a top destination for both local and international travelers.

The success of “Explore Bristol” in multiple categories, including the Best Overall Destination Marketing Campaign, demonstrates the power of strategic and cohesive marketing efforts in attracting visitors to this charming and culturally rich city.

As Bristol basks in its well-deserved recognition, the spotlight on their achievements serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to sustain and grow tourism in Southwest Virginia. Congratulations to all the winners for their contributions and dedication to making Bristol and the surrounding regions shine even brighter.