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Visit Seattle’s 2026 Ovation Awards

The Visit Seattle Ovation Awards (“The Ovies”) recognize Seattle and King County hospitality professionals who go above and beyond to make our region a welcoming, must-visit destination.

All nominations are adjudicated by a cross-departmental panel of Visit Seattle team members before a shortlist of three nominees per category is announced for public voting. Visit Seattle team members and members of associated boards of directors are excluded from consideration.

Graphic for the "Visit Seattle Ovation Awards" Annual Meeting 2026, featuring a city skyline, laurel leaves, and the text "Nominations Now Open!" on a green leafy background.

The Awards Timeline

The Categories

These are the following Ovation Award categories for 2026.

Tourism Leader of the Year

The Ovie for Tourism Leader of the Year is awarded to a member of Seattle and King County’s hospitality community that exhibits excellence in promoting our destination while greatly enhancing the visitor experience.

Community Leader of the Year

The Ovie for Community Leader of the Year is awarded to an individual who best exemplifies the idea that “a good place to live is a good place to visit.” The nominee should exhibit a strong commitment to a mission that not only improves the lives of Seattle and King County residents, but also visitors’ experiences while experiencing our destination.

Arts & Culture Leader of the Year

The Ovie for Arts & Culture Leader of the Year is awarded to a member of Seattle and King County’s arts and culture community that fosters and amplifies our destination’s standing as a leading cultural hub. The nominee should exhibit a strong commitment to ensuring visitors depart our destination with a strong understanding of the region’s distinct spirit.

Frontline Distinction Award

The Ovie for Frontline Distinction is awarded to a visitor-facing tourism industry professional who goes above and beyond to elevate the visitor experience, ensuring Seattle and King County leave a positive lasting impression that drives repeat visitation.

Behind-the-Scenes Distinction Award

The Ovie for Behind-the-Scenes Distinction is awarded to a non-visitor-facing tourism industry professional that goes above and beyond to elevate the visitor experience, ensuring Seattle and King County leave a positive lasting impression that drives repeat visitation.

 

The Nomination Form

Fill out the form below to nominate one person for one award. You will need to complete the form separately for each nomination.

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  • The Nominee

    Who would you like to nominate for an Ovation Award?
  • In a paragraph, explain why the nominee should be recognized with an Ovation Award.

  • The Nominator

    Your contact information

 

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