The nomination window is now open for the third annual Happy Valley Hospitality Awards, the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau announced this week.
This year’s awards recognize excellence in the local tourism and hospitality community in seven new categories:
- Rising Star Award
- Event/Festival of the Year (Tourism Grant supported)
- Volunteer of the Year (Individual or team)
- Tourist Attraction of the Year
- Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Leadership (individual)
- Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Service (individual or team)
- Excellence in Tourism/Hospitality Teamwork (team)
“We look forward to once again honoring our dedicated tourism and hospitality employees and volunteers,” Fritz Smith, HVAB President and CEO, said. “Our work to strengthen and grow the visitation economy would not be possible without their contributions. These awards and the upcoming Gala are our way of thanking and applauding those serving on the front lines of the visitor experience.”
Expanded award categories, Smith said, allow for a greater cross-section of individuals and teams to earn recognition, along with for the first time, events and tourist attractions.
The HVAB will also honor the 2024 recipient of the Peter J. Walker Spirit of Hospitality Award. Named after the late, longtime manager of Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park, the award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the traits that Walker brought to his role: leading by example with an incomparable work ethic; a commitment to serving others; and leaving a positive impact on those around him.
Prior recipients include We Are Inn owner Pat Romano and the State College Downtown Improvement District Clean Team.
Nominations can be submitted online at happyvalley.com/hospitality until close of business on Friday, Oct. 11.
Finalists and winners will be announced at the Happy Valley Hospitality Awards & Gala, which will be held from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12 at Brass 16823 in Bellefonte. The event will have a “Lights. Camera. Hospitality!” theme to celebrate Centre County’s hospitality and tourism community in grand Hollywood fashion.
