Town of Culpeper’s Tourism & Economic Development Office Receives Three 2026 VIRGO Awards

Town of Culpeper’s Tourism & Economic Development Office Receives Three 2026 VIRGO Awards

CULPEPER, VIRGINIA (April 20, 2026) – The Virginia Association of Destination Marketing Organizations (VADMO) has recognized the Town of Culpeper’s Tourism and Economic Development team with three prestigious VIRGO Awards, honoring excellence in tourism marketing across the Commonwealth.

Visit Culpeper received awards for Best Comprehensive Campaign (Culpeper Uncovered), Best Destination Event (Culpeper VA250 History Week), and Best Digital Marketing and/or Social Initiative (Culpeper, VA is for Foodie Lovers). One award is presented per category statewide, making Culpeper the only destination in Virginia to earn recognition in each of these categories for 2026.

Each year, VADMO honors the best and brightest in Virginia’s tourism industry. Whether it is an innovative marketing campaign, a highly successful destination event, or a cutting-edge digital initiative, the VIRGO Awards showcase the immense talent and dedication of destination marketing organizations across the state. Industry peers from outside Virginia serve as judges, and submissions are evaluated on criteria including creativity and execution, efficiency of resources, overall quality, and measurable economic or community impact. Awards were announced during the 2026 VADMO Tourism Symposium.

The Best Comprehensive Campaign award was presented for Culpeper Uncovered, a fully integrated marketing initiative that redefined Culpeper as a modern, inclusive, and story-driven destination. Through a strategic mix of digital advertising, influencer partnerships, public relations, and immersive storytelling, the campaign elevated awareness, drove visitation, and established a cohesive, long-term brand platform for the destination.

The Best Destination Event award recognized Culpeper VA250 History Week, a nine-day, multi-venue experience that transformed the community into an immersive celebration of America’s founding. Featuring living history programming, guided tours, and signature events, History Week attracted visitors from across the region, generated overnight stays, and delivered measurable economic impact while positioning Culpeper as a premier Revolutionary War era destination during the nation’s 250th commemoration.

The Best Digital Marketing and/or Social Initiative award was awarded for Culpeper, VA is for Foodie Lovers, a high-performing digital campaign that showcased Culpeper’s vibrant culinary scene. Through compelling visual storytelling, targeted advertising, and optimized digital content, the campaign achieved exceptional engagement, drove significant website traffic, and contributed to increased dining activity and meals tax revenue.

“These awards are a testament to the creativity, collaboration, and strategic vision of our team and community partners,” said Paige Read, Director of Culpeper Tourism and Town Economic Development. “From telling the stories that define our community, to creating immersive visitor experiences, to leveraging digital innovation, we are proud to showcase Culpeper as a destination that continues to grow, inspire, and welcome visitors in meaningful ways.”

About Virginia Association of Destination Marketing Organizations
The Virginia Association of Destination Marketing Organizations is a not-for-profit 501(c)(6) membership organization made up of more than 100 destination marketing organizations and industry partners. Since 1978, VADMO has worked to promote professionalism within the Virginia tourism industry and ensure tourism remains a strong economic driver across the Commonwealth. For more information, visit www.vadmo.org.

About Culpeper Tourism
Culpeper Tourism is responsible for promoting and marketing Culpeper as an attractive travel destination, enhancing the community’s public image as a dynamic place to visit, live, work, and play. Through the impact of travel, Culpeper Tourism strengthens the local economy and creates opportunities for residents and businesses alike.
For more information, visit visitculpeperva.com.

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