Celebrating the People Behind Bardstown Hospitality: The STAVE Awards

Each May, the Bardstown/Nelson County Hospitality Association hosts the annual STAVE Awards — a celebration dedicated to recognizing the people who help make Bardstown and Nelson County such a memorable place to visit. Sponsored by Bardstown/Nelson County Tourism, the awards shine a spotlight on the hospitality workers, leaders, and behind-the-scenes team members who go above and beyond for guests and our community every day.

The STAVE Awards feature seven categories, honoring individuals across restaurants, bars, lodging, attractions, leadership, and more. What makes the awards especially meaningful is that nominations come directly from the public, giving locals, visitors, coworkers, and business owners the opportunity to recognize those making a difference in our tourism industry.

Each year, nominations open to the public ahead of the May awards ceremony, with finalists selected and winners announced during an evening dedicated to celebrating the heart of Bardstown hospitality.

Whether you work in the hospitality industry, know someone deserving of recognition, or simply want to support the people who help Bardstown shine, we encourage you to get involved each year by submitting nominations, attending the event, and celebrating the incredible individuals who make our community so welcoming.

To learn more on how to get involved with the Bardstown/Nelson Co. Hospitality Association, please reach out to Taylor Hall at taylor@bardstowntourism.com