The Ottawa Valley Tourist Association has launched the 2026 Tourism Awards which recognize and honour tourism champions across the Ottawa Valley.
The Ottawa Valley Tourism Awards are presented annually by the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) to individuals, businesses, and events that recognize the importance of working together for the growth of the local tourism industry, as well as offering exceptional visitor experiences.
Award nominations are now being accepted in the following seven categories:
Tourism Champion
Business/Organization of the Year
Event of the Year
Sustainability Champion
Tourism Marketing
New Tourism Product
New Tourism Experience
“The 2026 awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the people and businesses who make tourism in the Ottawa Valley so special. We look forward to recognizing their achievements and celebrating the incredible work happening across our region,” said Joel Kowalski, chairman of the Ottawa Valley Tourism Awards.
Members of the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association can self-nominate or nominate other member businesses and individuals for the awards. The winners will be announced at the OVTA’s Annual General Meeting and Tourism Awards event on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Festival Hall in Pembroke.
Nominations can be completed online at https://www.ottawavalley.travel/industry/. Last year’s winners, all award descriptions and eligibility criteria are listed there as well.
About the OVTA
The OVTA is the official destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents over 300 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and events, accommodations, dining and retail establishments, food producers, rafting companies and outfitters, artists and galleries, as well as media and industry suppliers. The OVTA is proudly supported by the County of Renfrew, Renfrew County municipalities and the City of Pembroke.