Tampa, FL (May 24, 2024) – Visit Tampa Bay and its more than 900 hospitality partners are celebrating the Power of Travel during this year's U.S. Travel Association National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW). Commencing with the lighting up of local landmarks and ending with honoring local tourism industry heroes at the annual awards luncheon on May 29th, the period shines the spotlight on the pivotal role tourism plays in Tampa Bay.

From stimulating economic growth to cultivating vibrant communities and creating quality job opportunities, the tourism industry fuels every industry…in every community. In fact, Hillsborough County is a living example with nearly $9 billion in economic impact last year and more than 59,000 local jobs directly sustained by our tourism industry.

Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa understand the significant impact travel and tourism has on the region and has proclaimed May 19 - May 25, 2024, as “Tampa Bay Tourism Week” in recognition and support of the local tourism and hospitality industry. Doing so solidifies Tampa Bay's place as a powerhouse destination that warmly welcomes all to live, work, and play.

“The Tampa Bay tourism industry continues to soar — driving economic impact for Hillsborough County,” said Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “National Travel and Tourism Week is a time to reflect on Tampa Bay's incredible upward trajectory as a top-of-mind destination for domestic and international travelers alike. We also have a chance to pay homage to our local hospitality industry and our more than 900+ partners, stakeholders, and tourism champions whose efforts continue to position our tourism economy as a nationwide leader.”

Visit Tampa Bay's annual awards luncheon at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino will recognize industry professionals and community leaders for their commitment to strengthening travel and tourism in the region with the presentation of the following awards:

• “Hospitality Hero Awards” for embodying hospitality excellence by creating an extraordinary experience for the millions of visitors to Tampa Bay.
• “Talk Up Tampa Awards” for critical contributions in securing impactful events that made a significant economic impact to the region.
• “Gonzmart Family Ambassador of the Year Award” for demonstrating deep dedication to Tampa Bay's culture, community, and tourism.

The most impactful event during NTTW was the opportunity for 100 Visit Tampa Bay industry partners and team members to serve the community during “Tourism Gives Back” on May 21. These volunteers supported Feeding Tampa Bay's fight against food insecurity in our local area by creating more than 11,000 meals and sorting more than 12,000 pounds of food.

While the official dates for NTTW are May 19 - 25, Visit Tampa Bay launched early with a golf event, Tee Off FORE Tourism, on May 10 in association with Hillsborough County Hotel Motel Association (HCHMA). A portion of the proceeds from the event supported the tourism-focused education initiatives from Visit Tampa Bay and HCHMA. Additionally, numerous Tampa Bay landmarks and buildings have been illuminated with red lights, the official color of NTTW, to show support for the tourism industry.

The heart of Florida's Gulf Coast beats in Tampa Bay. Visit Tampa Bay encourages adventure with a relaxing vibe to create vacation experiences that are authentically Tampa Bay. As a not-for-profit corporation certified by Destinations International's Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP), we work with hundreds of partners to tell the world the story of Tampa Bay. Treasure awaits. For more information, visit our website.