Get ready to celebrate 5 years of iTIP at the Summer Celebration in Amana! Join us for the fun-filled Mini Golf Tournament, followed by the much-anticipated Awards Ceremony and Annual Meeting. Spend a day and a half connecting with fellow tourism leaders, enjoying friendly competition, and celebrating another successful year of growth and collaboration in Iowa’s tourism industry. Let’s come together, raise a glass, and keep the momentum going!
Tentative Schedule of Events:
Monday, June 8, 2026
4 – 6 PM: Mini Golf Tournament in downtown Amana, meet at Festhall Barn (4707 220th Trail, Amana)- 6:30 – 9 PM: Evening Social Activity: Oktoberfest Style @ Hotel Millwright
- Connect with industry colleagues while taking part in a traditional Oktoberfest celebration.
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
- 8 – 8:30 AM: Breakfast / Registration
- 8:30 – 9 AM: Welcome
9 – 10 AM: Keynote Speaker: Kent Stock
Kent Stock shares the powerful story behind Norway, Iowa’s legendary baseball team and their final season, a journey that inspired the film The Final Season. What started as a season of uncertainty became a lesson in leadership, resilience, and purpose. Through his experiences as a coach, educator, and leader, Kent challenges you to think about the choices you make every day and the impact you leave on others. This isn’t just about a team; it’s about your legacy.- Speaker Sponsor: Travel Iowa
- 10 – 10:30: Networking Break + Awards Photos
- 10:30 – 11:40 AM: Awards Ceremony
The iTIP Foundation annual awards ceremony will honor up to 19 award recipients, celebrating their contributions to the Iowa tourism industry. Sponsored by:
Award Ceremony Emcee: Eric Hanson, KZIA Radio
- Eric Hanson, co-host of Z102.9’s Morning Scramble, brings his quick wit and community-first energy to the stage as emcee. A familiar voice across Eastern Iowa, Eric keeps things moving, keeps it fun, and knows how to connect with a crowd.
- 11:45 AM – 1:30 PM: Amana Experience + Lunch
- 1:45 – 2:30 PM: iTIP Annual Meeting
- Celebrate FY26 achievements, adopt the annual report, and elect new leadership while unveiling exciting initiatives shaping iTIP’s future. Don’t miss this key portion of the program to stay informed and inspired for the year ahead!
- 2:30 – 3:30 PM: Tourism Throwdown: Peer to Peer Learning
A fast-paced idea exchange where Iowa tourism partners share real experiences others can take back to their communities.
- 3:30 – 3:45 PM: Closing Remarks
Room Block
- The room block at Hotel Millwright is open through May 26.
- The block rate is $124++. If the booking link is not working, please call Hotel Millwright directly at 319-838-5015 to complete the booking.
Thank you to our event sponsors!
If you are planning to attend both Monday, June 8 and Tuesday, June 9, please purchase both ticket options below.
Reach out to Chelsea Lerud if you have questions about registering for the event.