During a recent government meeting, significant recognition was given to the Back of the Dragon and OTR 2024, which were awarded the title of Outstanding Festival of the Year at the Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards. The awards ceremony took place during a conference in Wytheville, where attendees participated in sessions aimed at enhancing tourism strategies for the region.

The meeting highlighted the importance of such festivals in promoting local tourism and the positive impact they have on the community. The recognition of Back of the Dragon and OTR is seen as a testament to their efforts in attracting visitors and boosting the local economy. The discussions emphasized the need for continued collaboration and innovation in tourism to further benefit Southwest Virginia.