Submissions for the 2026 MHLA “Stars of the Industry” Awards are officially open!
Submissions for the 2026 MHLA “Stars of the Industry” Awards are officially open!
It is time to get your Stars ready for the spotlight! The Maryland Hotel & Lodging Association (MHLA) is thrilled to announce the 36th Annual MHLA “Stars of the Industry” Awards, submissions are now open.
This event will be celebrating the outstanding contributions of front-line hotel employees and managers across Maryland. These exceptional individuals have gone above and beyond in delivering unforgettable experiences to guests and making a real impact on their communities over the past year. It is an event that you won’t want to miss.
Here’s what you need to know
- Selection Process: Your 2026, winners will be selected at the property level and submitted to MHLA in their respective award categories.
- A Celebration to Remember: All winners/Stars will be honored at the “Stars of the Industry” Awards Luncheon on Friday, April 24, 2026, at The BWI Airport Marriott hotel. This will be an unforgettable midday event, where every winner from each property will take their moment in the spotlight!
- Glamour & Glitz: Enjoy a Star-studded experience with a “Walk of Fame”, group photo opportunities– including a “Wall of Fame” to capture the celebration with your fellow winners.
- Show Off Your Star Power: Every participating MHLA Member Property will receive a plaque to proudly display at your hotel, honoring your 2026 Star winners.
Submit Your Stars Today!

- Deadline to Submit: March 6, 2026
- Eligibility: To nominate employees or your property, you must be a current MHLA member property in good standing.
- Category Limits: Each property may submit one winner per category, with a maximum of 8 winners total, per property.
- Important: All winners are expected to attend the event and be present for recognition – only registered winners will be announced at the luncheon.
Winner Registration & Attendance Requirements
Mark your calendar to join us on Friday, April 24, 2026, at The BWI Airport Marriott for the 2026 MHLA "Stars of the Industry" Awards Luncheon.
Upon submitting your winners, they will be registered to attend the event. As a part of your submission, you will need to confirm the total number of attendees who will be attending the event from your property. This should include all registered winners and any additional attendees. Names can be confirmed at a later date.
Please note:
- Based on the number of attendees confirmed, we will register the winners and any additional attendees on your behalf and issue an invoice accordingly.
- Individual attendee - $105 per person
- Table of 10 - $1000 per table
- Attendee names can be confirmed closer to the event date.
- We anticipate a sold-out event, as capacity is limited.
- To ensure availability, winners and their teams will be prioritized for registration ahead of general attendees.

