The weeklong celebration from May 19-24 honors the importance of tourism on the region’s economic health
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C., May 15, 2024 – DistiNCtly Fayetteville is recognizing the vital role of tourism within Cumberland County during National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) from May 19-24. The annual nationwide celebration is an opportunity to highlight the contributions of the U.S. travel industry, showcasing how travel drives economic growth, cultivates vibrant communities, and enriches lives. DistiNCtly Fayetteville is joining the celebration, utilizing the week as an opportunity to showcase the integral role of tourism within Cumberland County.
According to a study by Visit North Carolina in conjunction with Tourism Economics, in 2022, the travel and tourism industry had a $666.7 million economic impact on Cumberland County. Additionally, the sector created more than 4,800 jobs, a 7.4 percent increase compared to 2021. The county received $45.5 million in taxes from travel-related activities, which led to $132.43 in tax savings for every county resident.
“We are proud to champion tourism within our community, not just this week, but year-round."
“The tourism industry plays an essential role in the economic health of our county and beyond, from tax revenue to job creation. We are all impacted by the industry, and it is important to continue growing this vital sector,” said Devin Heath, president and CEO of DistiNCtly Fayetteville. “We are proud to champion tourism within our community, not just this week, but year-round. Fayetteville and Cumberland County are ripe with distinct experiences and attractions, and we are proud to showcase what makes our community thrive.”
The Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) is planning events week-long to celebrate and highlight the importance of tourism. On Fri., May 17, DistiNCtly Fayetteville will take over a round during Trivia Night at The Church Entertainment Lounge. With questions focused on NTTW and the tourism industry, DistiNCtly Fayetteville will award individual prizes to the team that wins the round. Trivia Night is open to the public for a $5 entry fee per person. Teams can compete with up to eight participants for first-, second-, and third-place prizes to those with the highest number of points at the end of the night.
As part of NTTW, DistiNCtly Fayetteville will join a state-wide initiative to increase awareness of North Carolina’s tourism industry and unique experiences. During the week, North Carolina’s welcome centers will hold celebrations, thanking visitors for traveling and sharing information on visiting their destinations. On Fri., May 24, the DMO will participate in the I-95 South National Tourism Week Celebration at the South N.C. Welcome Center at mile marker 48 in Fayetteville. The event is free and open to the public.
To learn more about DistiNCtly Fayetteville and its mission to drive tourism in the Fayetteville area, please visit distinctlyfayettevillenc.com.