2026 BCTDA Annual Meeting

2026 BCTDA Annual Meeting

October 01, 2026  ·  Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM (ET)

Join us for Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority's Annual Meeting as we recognize and celebrate the continued efforts made together in rebounding and propelling our region forward.

What's in store for the 2026 BCTDA Annual Meeting:

  • Keynote speaker Adam Sacks, President of Tourism Economics, An Oxford Economics Company, is an expert on measuring the economic impact of visitor activity which regularly informs national and local government policy.
  • Recap of Explore Asheville's strategic investments and marketing initiatives from the past year
  • The recipient of the 27th annual William A.V. Cecil Leadership Award will be revealed and recognized
  • 2026 Legacy Investment from Tourism Fund awardees announced
  • Gain meaningful insights and foster stronger partnerships through networking

Stick around after the program to enjoy live music, seasonal bites, craft beverages, and valuable networking with industry colleagues and friends. 

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William A.V. Cecil Tourism Leadership Award

For nearly three decades, the William A.V. Cecil Tourism Leadership Award has honored those who have made a significant contribution to the travel and hospitality sector in Asheville and Buncombe County, providing exceptional leadership, creativity, and commitment to making our community a special place to live, work, play, and visit.

Join us in celebrating this year's recipient!

Speakers

Adam Sacks

As President of Tourism Economics, Adam leads rigorous, analytically grounded consulting for governments, destinations, airlines, hotel chains, resort developers, and major industry associations worldwide.

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Agenda

Thursday, October 1
3:00 PM
3:00 PM
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Check-in and pickup your nametag from an Explore Asheville staff member. Enjoy beverages and networking before the program begins.
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
The 2026 Annual Meeting program will include: CEO Report Keynote Speaker Adam Sacks, President of Tourism Economics 2026 LIFT Fund Awardee Announcement Board and Staff Recognition William A.V. Cecil Leadership Award Presentation
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Enjoy local music, and lights bites and beverages in the pre-function hallway and patio of the Renaissance Hotel.
6:00 PM
6:00 PM

Location

Location: Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel, 31 Woodfin Street, Asheville, NC 28801

2025 Photos