The 37th annual National Travel & Tourism Week (May 3-9) looks ahead to how tourism can help OKC’s economic recovery

National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), led by the U.S. Travel Association, recognizes the contributions and accomplishments of the U.S. travel industry and unites communities across the country to celebrate how travel matters to American jobs, economic growth and recovery and personal well-being. While in-person ceremonies and events that have been hallmarks of NTTW in years past are not an option this year, the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau (OKC CVB) is engaging locals on social media in support of the many ways travel contributes to the community.

 

The theme of this year’s NTTW, “Spirit of Travel,” honors the travel industry in recognition of the industry’s strength, selflessness and resiliency. Through the Spirit of Travel, communities can stay connected, unified and supportive of each other from afar.

 

“There’s no doubt that this has been an incredibly challenging time for our city. We see National Travel and Tourism Week as an opportunity to remind our residents and visitors of the incredible spirit and resiliency of the travel industry and our workforce,” said Mike Carrier, President of the OKC CVB. “Now more than ever, we’re calling on everyone—from elected officials to all of our local friends and neighbors—to join us in honoring the travel industry’s powerful impact on our community. Together, we will play a vital role in OKC’s recovery after COVID-19.”

 

Tourism is the third-largest industry in Oklahoma and has a long track record of making a substantial economic impact to Oklahoma City’s annual economy:

  • 22,230 jobs supported by travel and tourism

  • Travel and tourism generated $355 million in direct tax revenue, $2.3 billion in direct travel spending and $569 million in direct earnings for Oklahoma County (based on 2018 Economic Impact of Travel survey by Okla. Tourism & Recreation Dept.)

  • Oklahoma City hosts more than 7.5 million annual visitors and 3.5 million overnight visitors.

“While we know the short-term impacts have been difficult to the hospitality industry and businesses that rely on conventions, sporting events and leisure travelers, we are beginning to see an uptick in travel interest and are confident that Oklahoma City is positioned well for the future,” said Carrier. “We must work together to help promote OKC as a destination that’s ready to welcome visitors in a safe and friendly way when they are ready.”

 

Each day of NTTW, the OKC CVB will dedicate a theme for Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, in addition to road trip itineraries on Pinterest, featured Spotify playlists and an entire webpage dedicated to National Travel & Tourism Week with itineraries from influencers from OKC and across the country.

 

Here’s how Oklahoma City locals can get involved on social media by tagging @VisitOKC, #SeeOKC and #SpiritofTravel:

  • Sunday, May 3: Kick off National Travel & Tourism Week on all social platforms. Download the tool kit from U.S. Travel by visiting www.ustravel.org/toolkit/national-travel-and-tourism-week.

  • Monday, May 4: @VisitOKC is rolling out some fun Instagram stories inspiring viewers to engage with travel in OKC.

  • Tuesday, May 5: Takeover Tuesday. Follow along as local influencers take over the Visit OKC Instagram account in two hour increments throughout the day.

  • Wednesday, May 6: Hometown Heroes Day. The OKC CVB is taking this to the community to share stories through videos or social posts of individuals or companies who have played a bit part in tourism in the last year. Also on May 6, the Skydance Bridge and Myriad Gardens Crystal Bridge will be lit up blue to celebrate National    Travel & Tourism Week.

  • Thursday, May 7: Throwback Thursday. Share all of your favorite photos of OKC from the past.

  • Friday, May 8: National media outlets from across the globe are being asked to dust off their OKC articles and bring them back to life on social platforms. @VisitOKC will also share travel tips and highlight videos from partners, attractions and districts around the city.

  • Saturday, May 9: Looking Forward. Share a social post about what you’re looking forward to most in OKC when travel is back in full swing.

  • All week: Display Modern Frontier content during National Travel & Tourism Week to help support the CVB and tourism. Visit www.visitokc.com/brand for messaging, social graphics, videos and more.

 

To learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week 2020, please visit our event page at www.visitokc.com/plan. To support OKC beyond NTTW, visit www.visitokc.com/support-okc for virtual experiences, coloring pages, educational offerings, restaurant updates and local businesses in need of your support.