May 3-9, 2026 National Travel & Tourism Week
Visit Brookings is rolling out the red carpet to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week. We’re proud to be part of South Dakota’s billion dollar tourism industry and the impact it makes across our state.
What is National Travel and Tourism Week?
National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual celebration highlighting the vital role of travel in driving our nation’s economy, fostering vibrant communities and building connections.
Established in 1983 by the U.S. Travel Association, NTTW has become a cherished tradition. It showcases how travel boosts economic growth, creates quality jobs, inspires new businesses and enhances the quality of life for Americans every day.
2026 NTTW will Fill Your Cup!
Visit Brookings plans to celebrate employees who work in restaurants, bars, hotels, convenience stores, attractions, meeting venues and other visitor industry businesses during NTTW. As part of the fun, we’re bringing back a chance to win and are asking for your help in scoring additional prizes.
During the week of May 4 – 8, staff within the visitor industry is invited to Visit Brookings for your chance to win prizes.
Stop by anytime during the following days:
Monday: 1pm – 5pm
Tuesday: 8am – 5pm
Wednesday: 8am – 5pm
Thursday: 8am – 5pm
Friday: 8am – 5pm
Visit Brookings Tourism Awards
- Larson Family Tourism Champion Award: Shari Budahl Avery
- This coveted honor recognizes individuals who work tirelessly to spread the message and garner support for tourism. As co-chair of the Brookings Summer Arts Festival, she has helped build one of South Dakota’s premier cultural events. Her leadership across multiple committees has brought in more than 240 artists and vendors along with tens of thousands of visitors each year, strengthening the local economy and creating opportunities to bring people together.
- Tourism Facility of the Year: Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center
- The Oscar was recognized for its role in enhancing Brookings as a regional arts and culture destination. Since opening, The Oscar has served as a vital resource for arts and entertainment, welcoming events like Prairie Repertory Theater, SDSU productions, the State One-Act Play Festival, Miss South Dakota Competition and the Governor’s Ag Summit.
- Extra Mile Award: Downtown Brookings
- From launching Third Thursdays to supporting local businesses, public art and community traditions, Downtown Brookings brings people together and enhances the visitor experience. The organization plays a key role in driving tourism and fostering connections through its work in celebrating community and business milestones, organizing seasonal events and serving as a resource during challenging times.
- Hospitality Hero Award: Mandy Lyons
- This award recognizes an individual who strives to provide the best in customer service and sets the bar for exemplary service and customer satisfaction. Lyons is a Play and Learning Facilitator at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota, is known for her outstanding service and dedication to making every guest feel welcome. As a tourism professional, she helps families feel at home and goes above and beyond to connect with kids and adults alike.
Have You Had Excellent Customer Service
We’ve all had great service. Maybe it’s the smile you got first thing in the morning at the drive through. How about the person who made your day by the warm welcome during your last hotel stay?
We invite you to help recognize our Brookings Great Faces with Star Cards! Hand the cards out to anyone who provides exemplary service or grab a larger Star Card and leave a note behind.
Thank you to all the partners who have joined Visit Brookings to thank the workers in the hospitality industry! Working together makes us all stronger. If you or your business would like to join in the celebration, click the link below to let us know how you can help.
Thank you to our partners:
Wooden Legs Brewing Company | McCrory Gardens | The Lanes | Prairie Repertory Theatre