Governor's Conference 2026
The annual Tennessee Governor's Conference on Hospitality and Tourism (Gov Con) brings together representatives of the state's travel and tourism industry for the years premier can't-miss event!
Conference registration includes access to early arrival experiences, meals, educational seminars, Stars of the Industry, and all receptions. Lodging is not included. Your name badge will be your ticket to early arrival experiences.
Early Bird
Registration
5/1 - 7/31
Member $440
Non-member $540
General
Registration
8/1 - 8/31
Member $490
Non-member $590
Late
Registration
9/1 - 9/15
Member $540
Non-member $640
Take a Look at Our Speaker Lineup!
Hear from industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers who are shaping the future. Our speaker lineup brings together diverse perspectives, real-world insights, and forward-thinking ideas you won’t want to miss.
View All Speakers
Conference Agenda
September 16-18 | Gatlinburg, Tennessee
9am
Early Arrival Registration
11am - 5pm
Registration Office Open for General Attendees
8am - 5pm
Regional Directors Meeting & Breakfast (Invite Only)
9am-2pm
12pm-2:30pm
Tennessee Tourism Committee (Invite Only)
3:00pm-4:30pm
Opening Session
5:30pm-7:30pm
8 AM - 4 PM
General and Breakout Sessions
6 PM - 10 PM
Stars of the Industry Reception, Awards, and Gala
8 AM - 10 AM
Breakfast and Closing Session
Governor's Conference presented by TNHTA with partners
GAtlinburg welcomes you!
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg welcomes you to Gov Con 2026! Where mountain charm, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality set the stage for an unforgettable gathering of Tennessee’s tourism industry.
Education Foundation Fundraiser BOttle Pull
Thank you to our friends at the Tennessee Distillers Guild for bringing this exciting new event to life! Be sure to stop by our bottle pull for a chance to take home some unique spirits—all while supporting the TNHTA Education Foundation.
Opening Night Reception
Join us at Anakeesta high above the Gatlinburg strip to kick of Gov Con 2026. A night of great food, fun drinks, and amazing connections!
Stars of the Industry Awards
A night to honor the best of Tennessee's hospitality & tourism industry...
These awards celebrate excellence across Tennessee’s hospitality and tourism industry, honoring outstanding individuals, organizations, and leaders for their service, innovation, and lasting impact.
Learn More & Submit a Nomination
FAQ
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH
Opening Session - Business Casual
(Wear light layers/bring a jacket in case session rooms are hot or cold)
Opening Reception at Anakeesta - Casual
Comfortable shoes encouraged
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH
Conference Sessions - Business Casual
Wear light layers/bring a jacket in case session rooms are hot or cold
Comfortable shoes encouraged - Convention Center is large and requires lots of walking
Stars of the Industry Dinner - Dress to Impress (Cocktail/Black Tie Optional)
Wear purple to celebrate the state flower: Purple Iris
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH
Friday Sessions - Business Casual
Rep your city or company swag!
(Wear light layers/bring a jacket in case session rooms are hot or cold)
EXHIBITOR MOVE-IN
Wednesday, September 16 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Booths must be completely set up by 2:00 PM on the 16th.
Exhibitors will not be allowed to move in after the allotted move in time. No exceptions will be made.
EXHIBITOR MOVE-OUT
Friday, September 18 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Booth dismantling may not begin until the conference officially closes at 10:30 AM on Friday, September 18. All exhibits and materials must be removed by 5:00 PM on Friday, September 18.
Get Full Exhibitor Information Here
Questions? Reach out to Wayne@tnhta.org
Have More Questions? Reach out to Brittany Barragan at brittany@tnhta.org.