The Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA) recognized the impact and accomplishments of the state’s tourism industry at the annual tourism awards program held during Governor’s Conference on Tourism at the Lake Terrace Convention Center in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, October 2-4, 2024. This annual educational and professional development event brought together around 200 tourism industry professionals from across the state as well as tourism partners from the surrounding region.
The Starkville Dachshund Derby was awarded the Best Large Festival of the Year Award. This is awarded to a festival with an attendance greater than 5,000. This event should be well attended, well publicized and attract a large variety of visitors.
“Mississippi’s tourism industry continues to flourish,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “Every day, more visitors are discovering the charm of our state as they are drawn in by its natural beauty and the genuine hospitality of our people. It’s no surprise why Mississippi leaves such a lasting impression with our visitors. I want to extend my gratitude to the Mississippi Tourism Association and their members for showcasing all that our state has to offer and congratulate this year’s outstanding award winners.”
These awards give MTA the opportunity to recognize members who excel in various sectors of the industry. Awards were presented in 22 categories, each focusing on a different aspect of the hospitality industry or individual achievement.
“We are delighted to celebrate these hardworking individuals who consistently go above and beyond for their com munities and organizations. The competitiveness of these awards reflects the exceptional quality of work from our partners and highlights the strength of Mississippi’s tourism industry. It’s a privilege to collaborate with such remarkable professionals as we continue to drive growth and success in our field,” said MTA Executive Director, Danielle Morgan.
Weenies became winners at the second annual Starkville Derby. More than 50,000 attendees visited the historic Cotton District throughout the day to see the world’s largest Dachshund race. Organized by the Starkville Sausage Dog Society, the Derby looked to give back to its local community, artist scene, and hospitality sector.
The Derby was a smashing success not just for its philanthropic efforts but also for the local restaurants, bars, food trucks, and art vendors. In only its second year, the event has already become a Starkville staple with visitors making plans to attend the 2025 event.
“Ralph Marson said, ‘Excellence is not a skill, it’s an attitude.’ It is my honor to commend the Mississippi Tourism Association’s 2024 Governor’s Conference on Tourism Award Winners. Your passion and commitment to tourism, our state’s fourth-largest industry, and its collective contribution to Mississippi’s economy are fervently articulated by the impactful strategic initiatives and professionalism you execute and demonstrate daily. Thank you and your team for your unwavering passion that contributes to the transformational impact for our individual and collective Mississippi communities,” said Dr. Rickey Thigpen, 2024-2025 President of MTA.
