Visit Sarasota County (VSC) has received several national recognitions for its work in attracting meetings and events to the area, which supports the local economy.
VSC was named a 2025 Readers’ Choice by ConventionSouth, a publication focused on event planning in the South. The selection process involved more than 7,000 voters and marked the competition’s highest level of social media engagement so far. This is the ninth time VSC has earned this award since 2001.
In December, VSC was also chosen as a Platinum Choice Award Winner by Smart Meetings, a publication covering destinations and venues for meetings. Readers voted based on their own experiences at various locations, placing VSC alongside larger destinations such as Kissimmee and Miami. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota also received recognition in the hotel category.
Additionally, the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) gave VSC two bronze awards during its 69th annual Adrian Awards. One award recognized VSC’s “Support the 941” hurricane recovery campaign, while another honored its Indicators & Insights Summit. These awards highlight achievements in travel marketing across several categories including advertising and public relations.
Erin Duggan, President and CEO of Visit Sarasota County, stated: “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 the year, VSC attracts various events from athletic competitions to corporate retreats. In fiscal year 2025, its incentive program provided $28,000 to help hotels book meetings and conventions. International outreach efforts included creative collaborations like an “Art Car” partnership with Lipstick Lex to keep Sarasota visible overseas. The group business helps generate Tourist Development Tax revenue that is used for local amenities such as beaches, arts venues, and sports facilities.
For more information about Visit Sarasota County’s sales efforts: www.sarasotameetings.com
