Rural Roundup
Article and photos submitted by Travel Nevada
Rural Roundup Returns
Elko Welcomes Nevada’s Tourism Community
After a nine-year hiatus, Elko welcomes back Rural Roundup, where Nevada’s tourism community will gather at the Elko Convention Center from April 21–23, 2026. As the state’s premier conference for rural tourism partners, this signature event creates a vibrant space to connect, collaborate, and spark new ideas that help Nevada’s rural destinations thrive.
Hosted by Travel Nevada, the state agency dedicated to promoting tourism in the Silver State through adventure and discovery, Rural Roundup is an annual conference for Nevada’s tourism industry. This year marks the 33rd anniversary of the event and includes inspiring speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with a goal of helping Nevada’s rural communities develop and market themselves as destinations, resulting in increased visitation and strengthening Nevada’s position in the tourism market.
The 2026 conference kicks off on April 21 with immersive workshops and local adventures, each designed to showcase Elko’s unique character and deep-rooted western heritage. Whether it’s a mine tour of Gold Quarry, stepping back in time at the California Trail Interpretive Center, rolling up sleeves in a Basque cooking class, or crafting leather during a workshop at the Cowboy Arts and Gear Museum, attendees will discover firsthand what makes Elko truly special.
Also taking place on April 21 is FOCUS, an award-winning photography symposium held in conjunction with Rural Roundup. This one-day event features educational and inspirational sessions, meaningful networking opportunities, and hands-on experiences with the goal of strengthening Nevada’s exceptionally talented photography community. Each FOCUS event also emphasizes stewardship of the surrounding community, reinforcing a shared photographer’s mantra: Take only photos and leave only footprints. FOCUS will begin with a collaborative park cleanup at Peace Park.
Throughout the conference, attendees will also have a variety of opportunities to connect during networking events hosted by the Elko Convention and Visitors Authority and top-tier sponsors. These gatherings allow tourism professionals from across the state to build relationships, exchange ideas, and explore new collaborations.
A highlight of the conference is the Excellence in Tourism Awards Dinner, scheduled for April 23, which recognizes outstanding tourism partners for their contributions to Nevada’s tourism industry. The awards celebrate individuals who have made a meaningful impact both within their local communities and across the state.
The evening will conclude with the presentation of the Larry J. Friedman Industry Partner of the Year Award. This prestigious honor recognizes a Nevada tourism leader who has played a pivotal role in destination development, industry advocacy, and participation in Travel Nevada programs that elevate their destination while enhancing the quality of life within their community.
In addition to honoring industry leaders, Travel Nevada will host the third annual Rural Entrepreneurial Tourism Program Pitch Competition in partnership with Nevada’s Small Business Development Center. The initiative supports rural tourism startups and established businesses seeking to grow, refine, or expand their operations. Prospective entrepreneurs participated in mandatory virtual training earlier this March, where the top five new business ideas were selected. These finalists will pitch their concepts live during Rural Roundup for a chance to win $20,000 to help launch or expand their ventures.
Rural Roundup rotates annually amongst Nevada’s rural communities. For more information on Rural Roundup visit www.ruralroundup.com.