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Learn more about the nomination process below. Also, make sure to familiarize yourself with all of the Xenia Award categories before submitting your nomination.

Self-nominations are now accepted in all categories.
To nominate a business, individual or yourself for this honor, you must be an owner or employee of a business that is an active VTV partner.
We added four new categories: Dining Excellence Award, Innkeeper's Choice Award, Outdoor Adventure Pioneer Award, and Service Star of Hospitality for the Year.
There is now a separate category for restaurants and chefs. The Dining Excellence Award is for restaurants and the Culinary Champion is for chefs.
The Service Star of Hospitality for the Year is a pool of Spotlight on Service recipients who were nominated in 2023.
Consider the nominees' accomplishments for the year 2023 only.
The nominee should be a business, individual, or yourself who meets the criteria of the award.
Past award winners are not eligible to win again in the same category for two (2) consecutive years following their win. See Past Winners Here
All nominations will be accepted by submitting online by the deadline. Nominee access to the application process will be available upon nomination.
Nominees for the Welty Professional of the Year, Ambassador, Culinary Champion, Hospitality, Social Media Award, Cilurzo Award for Winery of the Year, Dining Excellence Award, Innkeeper's Choice Award, Outdoor Adventure Pioneer Award, Service Star of Hospitality for the Year and the Golden Tap Brewery of the Year Award do not need to be Visit Temecula Valley partners.

Award Categories

Welty Award for Tourism Professional of the Year
Recognizes a person who has made a significant contribution to the tourism industry through innovation, inspiration, and industry leadership. This award is presented at the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala.

Ambassador Award
Awarded to an individual who encouraged tourism and/or secured a major convention or event in Temecula that has generated a significant impact for the region.

Cilurzo Award for Winery of the Year
Recognizes a winery operating in the Temecula Valley, who routinely offers an exceptional guest experience through its wine, winery & vineyard's quality and appearance, and philanthropic endeavors for the betterment of the community.
The Golden Tap Brewery of the Year
The award will recognize a brewery, distillery, or meadery that produces great beer or spirits, builds strong local partnerships, and provides service excellence and valuable industry education to visitors and residents.
Champion Culinary Award
Awarded to a chef operating in the Temecula Valley demonstrating exceptional dining experiences through its service excellence, innovation and culinary offerings. The recipient of this award must be actively involved in the community through their philanthropic activities.
Hospitality Award
Awarded to a tourism organization who demonstrated outstanding hospitality to visitors and exhibits a team spirit in promoting travel, tourism and the growth of Temecula.

Social Media Award
Awarded to an organization that has had a significant impact in any or all of the following: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, Pinterest, or tourism-related blog that promoted Temecula tourism.
Dining Excellence Award
Presented to a Temecula Valley-based independent eatery showcasing outstanding dining experiences through their commitment to exceptional service, creative culinary creations, and innovative practices. This accolade recognizes the recipient's active engagement in the local community through their charitable endeavors.
Innkeeper’s Choice Award
The Innkeeper's Choice Award is bestowed to Temecula’s finest establishment in hospitality and the tourism industry, be it a hotel, motel, inn, or short-term rental. This prestigious accolade celebrates excellence in providing exceptional accommodations, impeccable service, and memorable guest experiences. It recognizes the dedication of the recipient to setting the highest standards in hospitality, making them the preferred choice for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and a home away from home.
Outdoor Adventure Pioneer Award
Awarded to a tourism organization that excels in providing exhilarating outdoor experiences, inspiring adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. To those who go above and beyond to create memorable moments amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.
Service Star of Hospitality for the Year
Honoring the cream of the crop among our community's frontline heroes. This award shines a spotlight on those who have been nominated for Spotlight on Service, for their exceptional service in the Temecula Valley community. This accolade illuminates an individual who has exhibited outstanding service, setting a shining example of selflessness and commitment that inspires us all.

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