The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau has begun planning its annual Springfield Salute to Travel & Tourism Banquet and we need your help! This event recognizes the “Best of the Best” in the Springfield area travel industry by presenting five distinct awards highlighting various areas of tourism achievement. The program celebrates the past year’s achievements and outlines plans for the coming year to increase tourism and boost the Springfield area economy.

We invite you to submit nominations for this prestigious event set for Feb. 20. Simply click here and fill out the short, easy form to submit your nominations. The deadline for nominations is Dec. 13.

Awards are presented in five categories:

Pinnacle Award – for individuals who have been active in the travel industry for many years and have made substantial contributions to the betterment of the Springfield area’s travel industry.

Hospitality Award – presented to an attraction, lodging facility or restaurant which demonstrates outstanding hospitality to the traveling public and exhibits a team spirit in promoting growth of Springfield area travel and tourism.

Diplomat Award – presented to a government official, organization or employee who has provided significant support to the Springfield area travel industry.

Spotlight Award – presented to an individual, business or organization not usually considered part of the travel and tourism industry for noteworthy contributions in advancing travel and tourism in the Springfield area.

Ambassador Award - presented to individuals or organizations who generated significant economic impact for the area by working to encourage tourism or secure a major convention or event in Springfield.

Click here to view a list of previous award recipients. Previous recipients are eligible to receive different awards.