LINCOLN, Neb. (August 10, 2017)—The 2017 Nebraska Tourism Conference is still a couple of months away but it's never too early to get excited about what to expect. There are different sessions each day with networking breaks in between. The conference will also include a marketing update from the Nebraska Tourism Commission where you will receive an update on the passport program and other general marketing activities.
"With so many quality presentations, as well as opportunities to network and learn, this year's tourism conference will be an event to remember," said John Ricks, Executive Director at the Nebraska Tourism Commission.
Here are the top ten reasons you need to sign up for the conference:
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1. Be a kid again at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch
Tim Vala, owner of Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, wants you to be a kid again for at least a little while at his pumpkin patch. Learn how Vala turned his wild idea into a highly successful business. As a conference attendee, you will visit Vala's Pumpkin Patch where you will be treated to a catered meal, bonfires and maybe even a train ride around the property.
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2. Gain access to educational workshops, seminars, and quality speakers
All three days of the conference are packed with informational sessions lead by experts in their fields. Don't miss your chance to learn valuable tips and tricks on how to grow your business or attraction. This conference helps to expand Nebraska's tourism industry.
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3. Find out how tourism creates a Halo Effect on the local economy
George Zimmermann will present Longwoods’ ground-breaking Halo Effect research. This research demonstrates how tourism marketing and visitation improves a destination's image not just as a place to visit, but also as a place to live, start a business, start a career, buy a second home and retire – talk about a chain reaction…looks like all of the key economic development objectives for any city, state or region.
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4. Network with new friends and strengthen relationships
Making new connections means making new friends in the tourism industry that will last a lifetime. The conference is the best time to hear new ideas and learn what has worked for peers.
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5. Learn how to think outside of the box
No one goes to a conference hoping to leave with the exact same knowledge they had before. It wouldn’t be worth your time nor would it be worth your money. Our speakers and breakout sessions will challenge you to see all sides of the industry and how you can better promote your attraction or business.
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6. Discover ways to increase attendees at your festivals and events
Brenda Leisy of the Old West Balloon Fest, Stacy Ann Griffin of the Nebraska Cigar Festival, Deborah Ward of the Omaha Craft Brew Campaign and David Fudge of Nebraskaland Days will provide insight on how to create successful festivals and events. During this session, you will learn how to face challenges and to apply goals to create sustainable and prosperous festivals.
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7. Become familiar with FAM Tours
Michael Collins will discuss the importance of increasing familiarity of your community. This session will show you what you can do to bring group operators to your attraction, community or area. You’ll learn the tricks of the trade to make yourself “group ready,” but also how you can work with the Nebraska Tourism Commission’s group tour manager.
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8. Visit exhibitors and discover new marketing avenues
Visiting with conference exhibitors and learning about new marketing products and avenues keeps you informed on the latest ways to market your business. Meeting someone face to face usually means better customer service. So think about it... when would you ever get all the vendors in the same room waiting for you to talk to them?
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9. Zoom in for video tips for social marketing
Video is the newest way to reach more fans and amplify your social marketing. Learn from social media expert Catherine Heeg as she shares tips to produce your own videos, as well as, tools to fire up your imagination. In her session, you will learn the secrets to Live video, how to market your videos socially and amplify your messaging and how to capture images and footage that inspire people to travel.
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10. You're sure to have a good time!
Make the most out of your trip to this conference by attending as many sessions as you can, as well as visiting Nebraska tourism sites. Enjoy all that Sarpy County has to offer! While you are in the area, hike through the Fontenelle Forest, go shopping at the Nebraska Crossing Outlets or take a tour of the Lucky Bucket Brewing Company.
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For more information about travel, events and unique destinations in Nebraska, order your free travel guide today at VisitNebraska.com. Then stay connected with Nebraska Tourism on our Visit Nebraska Facebook page, on Twitter, on Pinterest, on Instagram and on YouTube.
The mission of the Nebraska Tourism Commission is to expand Nebraska’s dynamic and diverse travel industry making it more viable by creating awareness, attracting increased visitors which results in greater tourism revenue and economic gain throughout the state. To learn more, go to VisitNebraska.com.
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