Tourism Stars Shine Bright at Southwest Virginia Awards in Wytheville

Wytheville, Va. – It’s that time of the year again, where the incredible work done in the tourism industry gets the recognition it truly deserves. This year’s Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards Ceremony, held on Wednesday, honored some of the best and brightest in the region, shining a spotlight on the innovative and tireless efforts of those who make this area a traveler’s delight.

The ceremony, presented by the Virginia Tourism Corporation, Friends of Southwest Virginia, and Visit Wytheville, celebrated big wins for Bristol, affectionately known as the Birthplace of Country Music. Businesses, organizations, and individuals from across the 19 counties in the region were acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to the tourism sector.

Kim Davis, the Executive Director of Friends of Southwest Virginia, emphasized the importance of these awards, stating, “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.”

Winning Highlights

This year saw a diverse range of winners, all of whom were selected from 65 nominations reviewed by a panel of tourism industry professionals from around the Southeastern United States and one judge from England. Here are the top winners:

• 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 Recap 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” and 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”

Regional Pride and Progress

The winners highlighted are just a snapshot of the innovative and dedicated efforts seen across Southwest Virginia. For instance, The Sessions Hotel is celebrated for providing an outstanding accommodation experience, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum won for their exceptional attraction, social media, and PR campaigns.

Notably, Explore Bristol took home multiple awards, further cementing Bristol’s reputation as a top-tier destination. Their effective use of social media, destination marketing, and creative print ads for the Tri-Cities Airport helps draw in more visitors, ensuring continued growth for the local economy.

A Toast to Tourism Leaders

Special recognition was also given to key individuals, such as Pam Cox and Rosa Lee Jude, for their leadership in tourism. Their continuous efforts strengthen the industry and inspire others to join in promoting the region’s unique attractions and heritage.

Tourism in Southwest Virginia remains a vital economic engine, bringing in visitors from near and far, and contributing significantly to local businesses and communities. This year’s awards have not only celebrated the outstanding accomplishments but have spotlighted the importance of tourism as a catalyst for regional development.

As the celebrations concluded, it was clear: the future of tourism in Southwest Virginia is looking brighter than ever, thanks to the dedication and creativity of its many passionate advocates and leaders.