Visit OKC honors the people behind the city’s tourism momentum

The people powering Oklahoma City’s visitor economy took center stage in early May as named its 2026 Hometown Heroes during an awards ceremony at The Jones Assembly.

Held during National Travel and Tourism Week, the annual awards recognize the individuals and organizations shaping how visitors experience Oklahoma City, from major festivals and cultural attractions to the behind-the-scenes leaders driving hospitality forward.

“Oklahoma City’s momentum is the result of strong partnerships and hospitality leaders like the honorees we’re celebrating,” said Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “These Hometown Heroes represent the very best of Oklahoma City.”

This year’s 11 honorees reflect the full scope of that impact:

Asian Night Market Festival; Captain Audrea George; Cynthia Reid; David Reeves; Debi Neumann; Festival of the Arts; Jordan Racine; Clara Luper Sit-In Plaza; Nicole Burleson; Oklahoma Fancy Dancers; Tina Gilliland.

From large-scale events that draw visitors into the city to cultural experiences that define its identity, each honoree plays a role in shaping Oklahoma City’s reputation as a destination.

As visitation grows and more national attention turns toward Oklahoma City, the Hometown Heroes Awards highlight a simple truth: the city’s momentum isn’t accidental. It’s built by people committed to creating experiences worth coming back for.