Governor Bullock Announces 2017 Montana Tourism Award Winners

Governor Steve Bullock on Monday night joined attendees of the Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Recreation http://www.mtgovernorsconference.com/ to congratulate nominees and winners of the 2017 Montana Tourism Awards.

The awards celebrate the outstanding work of the communities, businesses, organizations and people who strengthen Montana’s tourism industry and thereby contribute to maximizing its economic impact for Montana residents.

"Tourism is a crucial part of Montana’s economy and supports thousands of Main Street businesses in the state," said Governor Bullock. "I’m happy to recognize these businesses that show some of the amazing things that our state has to offer to visitors and residents alike."

The Heritage and Cultural Tourism Award is a new addition this year, which the Department of Commerce developed through a partnership with the Montana Historical Society to highlight the importance of Montana’s heritage and cultural amenities.

Nominations for all categories were open to the public, and judges comprising marketing and/or tourism experts from every region of the state chose the finalists and winners.

The winners are listed below. Click here http://marketmt.com/GovernorsConference/MontanaTourismAwards/2017Nominees to see nomination materials.

Marketing Campaign of the Year: Butte.Elevated

Event of the Year: Annual Dino Shindig (Ekalaka), Carter County Museum

Heritage and Cultural Tourism Award: Fort Benton Museums, River and Plains Society

Community of the Year: Livingston

Tourism Ambassador: Jocelyn Dodge, Butte

The Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Recreation continues in Helena on Tuesday morning with a feature presentation by Destination Analysts, which recently completed new research http://commerce.mt.gov/News/PressReleases/new-research-allows-montana-tourism-leaders-to-focus-on-innovation
into Montana’s brand and audience.

The Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development http://www.marketmt.com/ markets Montana’s spectacular unspoiled nature, vibrant and charming small towns, breathtaking experiences, relaxing hospitality, and competitive business climate to promote the state as a place to visit and do business.

CONTACT: Daniel Iverson, Communications Manager | 406.431.6487 | [email protected]