Visit Sarasota County (VSC) has received recognition from several national organizations for its work in attracting meetings and events to the area. The organization was named a 2025 Readers’ Choice by ConventionSouth, a publication focused on event planning in the southern United States. Over 7,000 voters participated in this year’s selection process, marking the competition’s most successful year so far. This is the ninth time VSC has received this award since 2001.
In addition, VSC was selected as a Platinum Choice Award Winner by Smart Meetings, which provides information about destinations and venues for meetings. The award is based on votes from readers who have experience with different venues and destinations. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota also received an award in the hotel category.
The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) presented VSC with two bronze awards at its 69th annual Adrian Awards ceremony. One award recognized VSC’s Support the 941 hurricane recovery campaign, while the other honored its Indicators & Insights Summit. The Adrian Awards are known as one of the largest competitions dedicated to travel marketing.
Erin Duggan, President and CEO of Visit Sarasota County, said: “Being recognized by some of the top meetings associations in the country reflects something we never take for granted – trust. That trust is earned through strong results and strong relationships, and it pays dividends far beyond a successful event, generating Tourist Development Tax paid by visitors and reinvested back into our community. We also share this recognition with the sales teams at our hotels and sports venues – it’s their partnerships and expertise, paired with ours, that turn handshakes into room nights.”
Throughout fiscal year 2025, VSC continued to attract various events including athletic competitions and corporate retreats to support local hotels and businesses outside of peak tourist season. Its incentive program distributed $28,000 to assist hotels with booking meetings and conventions. Initiatives such as international outreach efforts and creative collaborations like an “Art Car” partnership helped maintain interest in Sarasota abroad. Revenue generated from group business contributes to funding local beaches, arts programs, and sports facilities through Tourist Development Tax reinvestment.
More details about Visit Sarasota County’s sales initiatives can be found at www.sarasotameetings.com.
