Welcome to the 2025 Experience Awards Nomination Page!
We’re thrilled to open nominations for the 2025 Experience Awards. Here, you can nominate standout businesses, attractions, venues, events, staff members, and leadership across a variety of categories.
The Experience Awards celebrate the people, places, and organizations that go above and beyond to make South Central Tennessee an unforgettable destination. These annual awards recognize excellence across the tourism and hospitality industry and honor those who help shape meaningful visitor experiences throughout our region.
The Experience Awards are structured into two distinct award sections. This updated format allows us to better recognize both industry professionals and outstanding visitor experiences.
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The Industry Awards spotlight individuals, organizations, and properties that demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and impact within the tourism and hospitality industry. These categories align directly with the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association’s prestigious Purple Iris Awards. Winners in these categories will automatically advance as nominees for the Purple Iris Awards.
Industry categories include:
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Rising Star Award
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Community Service Award
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Event of the Year
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Chef of the Year
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DMO of the Year
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Restaurant Employee of the Year
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Lodging Employee of the Year
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Tourism Employee of the Year (Shopping, Retail, Attraction)
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Restaurant Manager of the Year
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Lodging Manager of the Year
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Tourism Manager of the Year (Shopping, Retail, Attraction)
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Best in Glass (Distillery, Winery, Brewery)
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Tourism Property of the Year
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The Experience Awards recognize standout visitor experiences across South Central Tennessee. While these categories do not align with the Purple Iris Awards, they reflect the experiences that matter most to both travelers and communities. These awards celebrate excellence in how destinations are felt, enjoyed, and remembered.
Experience categories include:
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Lodging Experience of the Year (Hotel, Motel, or Inn)
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Lodging Experience of the Year (Short-Term Rental)
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Dining Experience of the Year (Casual)
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Dining Experience of the Year (Fine Dining)
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Shopping Experience of the Year (Antiques, Southern Boutiques, and Unique Shopping)
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Music Experience of the Year
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Outdoor Experience of the Year
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The Captain’s Award