McAllen, TX – May 17, 2024 – Visit McAllen is kicking off the celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week. This year’s theme is “TRAVEL. Powering the Economy. Connecting America,” highlighting the positive impact travel and tourism have on the City of McAllen. This includes the initiatives taking place that cultivate McAllen’s vibrant community and elevate the quality of life for its growing population.

Monday, May 20 at 10 a.m. CT, representatives from Visit McAllen will discuss travel and tourism as economic drivers, taking the opportunity to recognize the industries’ impact on McAllen and thank their partners in the local hospitality and tourism industry.

Additionally, hospitality partners and local officials will share their insights and experiences in promoting McAllen as a vibrant destination city for travelers, more specifically - as one of the state’s designated Music Friendly Community.

In 2022 and 2023, McAllen was the first and only city in the State of Texas to receive the World International Festival and Events Association Award for the McAllen Holiday Parade.

McAllen's festival culture is a major draw for tourists at events created to serve diverse interests and tastes. From the award-winning McAllen Holiday Parade to the culturally connected MXLAN and Fiesta de Palmas, or the city’s year-round international sporting events, the City of McAllen has positioned itself as the South Texas capital of music and entertainment. These efforts not only celebrate McAllen's rich cultural heritage but also contribute significantly to the local economy.

“Successful events and festivals build community spirit and boost revenue for a city’s hospitality, dining, and entertainment businesses,” said Joe Vera, Assistant City Manager. “Notably, well-planned events are economically self-sustaining and have a path forward for growth.”

The McAllen Greeters, a group of local businesses men that volunteer their time welcoming convention attendees and travelers to McAllen, will be at the McAllen International Airport on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 to welcome the incoming flight from Mexico City.

“Every traveler who lands in McAllen is an opportunity for our local businesses to connect with a new customer,” said McAllen International Airport Director of Aviation Jeremy Santoscoy.

Created by the U.S Travel Association, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and travel’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, and attracting new businesses celebrated by local, national, and international patrons.

Members of the media and tourism industry professionals are invited to attend the press conference and learn more about the exciting developments in McAllen's travel and tourism sector.

To learn more, visit visitmcallen.com. 

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