Pennsylvania Tourism with Stronger Voice

Harrisburg, PA (USA) – 4 March 2012 – The Pennsylvania Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus (PACVB), the Pennsylvania Tourism and Lodging Association (PTLA) and the Pennsylvania Tourism Coalition are hosting a statewide tourism conference on April 29-May 2, 2012 at The Hilton Harrisburg. An annual gathering of the state’s tourism industry, the event will include representatives of every facet of PA tourism including museums, wineries, golf courses, hotels, restaurants, attractions, suppliers and many other tourism partners, largely made up of small businesses.

Tourism is a critical partner in the state’s efforts to bring jobs and economic development to Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Tourism accounts for more than 433,000 jobs in the Commonwealth. In 2010, Pennsylvania tourists spent more than $31 billion generating more than $3 billion in state and local tax revenues. This tax revenue supports public education and social welfare programs.

The theme for this second annual event is “Together for Tourism.” “The goal of the summit is to bring together many industry partners to explore ways to work more collaboratively toward a stronger voice with our Governor and state legislature,” said Rob Fulton, PACVB President.

The highlight of the summit occurs on Monday, April 30 at 3pm as hundreds of people, some dressed in costume, employed by this vital state industry parade from the Hilton Harrisburg to the State Capitol where they will gather for a rally and expo entitled “PA Tourism Day,” the rally will also feature costumed characters from area attractions and sporting events. The public is invited to join in the celebration of the state’s tourism industry by attending the rally and expo at the Capitol from 10am-4 pm on Monday, April 30, 2012.

Media Contact:
Lynn Burkholder
717-979-3052