2026 ADMEI Award Finalists Announced
The Association of Destination Management Executives International (ADMEI) is proud to announce the finalists for the 2026 ADMEI Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in creativity, professionalism, and innovation within the Destination Management industry.
This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the ADMEI Awards Program, celebrating two decades of honoring the remarkable talent and dedication of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) around the world. The program recognizes member excellence in DMC program, component development, and delivery, with more than 20 award categories spanning two classifications — Achievement and Recognition.
Achievement Awards identify DMCs that excel in delivering outstanding destination management services for a specific program or event. Recognition Awards honor peers and industry leaders for their lasting contributions and leadership within the DMC community.
“The quality and volume of entries this year were exceptional,” said Valerie Delaney, Executive Vice President of ADMEI. “Judges repeatedly shared how impressed they were with the creativity, detail, and impact of the submissions. The bar continues to rise each year, and these finalists truly represent the best in destination management worldwide.”
Entries were evaluated by an international panel of industry professionals — including meeting and event planners, hoteliers, producers, and agency leaders — all familiar with the work of DMCs. Up to three finalists were named in each category (barring ties), with the Best Overall Program category allowing up to five.
Winners will be announced during the Awards Dinner & Gala at ADMEI’s Annual Conference, held 1–3 March 2026at the Costa Rica Marriott Hacienda Belén. The gala, scheduled for Tuesday, 3 March 2026, will also celebrate this year’s Hall of Fame / Lifetime Achievement Award recipients — three distinguished leaders recognized for their integrity, excellence, and service to the DMC community.
Early Bird registration for the ADMEI Annual Conference is open through 5 December 2025, offering reduced rates for attendees.
👉 See the full list of finalists at www.admei.org/awards.