The state agency for tourism was recognized with eight IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards for the organization's Festivals of Hawai'i Post-Arrival Promotional Campaign.

The awards were presented at the 52nd Annual IFEA Convention & Expo in Atlanta Sept. 19.

"It is wonderful that the Festivals of Hawai'i Post-Arrival Promotional Campaign is receiving international recognition," said Rex Johnson, president and chief executive officer of HTA. "This campaign helps to strengthen Hawai'i's festivals as a unique and recognizable brand, and supports long-term sustainability for Hawai'i's festivals and the economic well-being of tourism in Hawai'i."

The campaign was launched in January 2007 and runs through the end of the year. It aims to inform and educate visitors — after they arrive in the islands — as well as residents, of the many festivals and events that provide quality and enriching experiences.

The promotion includes advertisements, editorial coverage, public service announcements, Web site promotions, video programs on in-room hotel channels and quarterly calendars. This program falls under the HTA's tourism product development initiative within the Hawai'i Tourism Strategic Plan: 2005-2015, which aims to enrich and diversify Hawai'i's tourism product and increase visitor spending and average length of stay.

The HTA received awards in the following categories:

Gold

i Best (local) Full-Length TV Program

i Best Ad Series

i Best Single Magazine Display Ad

i Best Miscellaneous Printed Materials (single page)

i Best New Promotion

Silver

i Best TV Promotion (ad spot or PSA)

Bronze

i Best Media Relations Campaign

i Best Single Magazine Display Ad