Submissions Now Open for ESTO Awards
Open exclusively to U.S. Travel Association members, the ESTO Awards are your chance to showcase your organization's most impactful and innovative destination marketing campaigns on the industry’s biggest stage.
The U.S. Travel ESTO Awards celebrates creative excellence across two distinct programs:
Destination Awards (formerly Destiny) – Honoring destination marketing offices (DMOs) that push the boundaries of marketing and promotion.
State Awards (formerly Mercury) – Recognizing state and territory tourism offices for standout destination marketing initiatives.
Winners will be honored on the ESTO stage in Phoenix, AZ, Monday evening, August 18 at our premier red carpet ESTO Awards Ceremony.
New Categories in 2025
While some categories will look familiar from previous years, the ESTO Awards continue to evolve to reflect the ever-changing landscape of destination marketing. Discover our new and reimagined categories:
- Innovation Award – Recognizing cutting-edge campaigns powered by AI and creativity
- All Ways Welcome Award – Celebrating marketing that champions inclusivity and accessibility
- Immersive Experiences Award – Honoring exceptional activations and brand storytelling
ESTO Awards Timeline & Details
Submit your Awards entry by Wednesday, April 30 for your chance to be recognized. Notification of entry status will be complete by mid-July.
Visit the Awards portal to learn more about entry fees, submission guidelines, application tips, judging criteria and more. Questions? Please contact Judith Harris, VP, Member Services.
Eligibility & Guidelines
Learn more about who is eligible to submit, entry fees and important qualifications for submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to your ESTO Awards questions here.
Learn How Winners Are Determined
Discover how ESTO Awards submissions are judged.
