summer regional event
​july 29, 2026

Did you know Vermont welcomed   16 million visitors   to the state in 2024 who spent   $4.2 billion  while they were here? 
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That’s because of   YOU, and your business and the work you do each and every day.

Come join the newly formed   Vermont Tourism Alliance (VTA) for its first annual Summer Regional Event.

Time: 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Location: The Harborvale,
                                      25 Cherry Street
​                                     Burlington, VT

Parking:  The hotel features valet parking and self-parking.  The prevailing rate as of 6/26/2026 is $25.00 per day for valet or $16.00 per day for self-parking. Please note that these rates may change and the cost of parking charged to guests will be the prevailing rate for parking.    Guests may also park on their own through the City of Burlington parking garage at the kiosk.     
Suggested Registration Fee: $25

​We believe everyone should have the opportunity to participate. A contribution of $25 is suggested to help support the program and offset the costs of hosting the event. When you register, you are welcome to contribute any amount, from $0 to $25 or more, based on what feels right to you and level of support.

Program

2:00 pm – 2:15 pm: Welcome
 
2:15 pm – 3:00 pm: Accessible Travel/Guest Experience
Panel Discussion & Interaction About Accessible Travel & Tourism in Vermont

​Accessibility is increasingly shaping how destinations welcome visitors, creating experiences that allow people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to participate with confidence and comfort. According to a recent article from travelabilityinsider.com, “a sensory room at an airport doesn’t just help autistic travelers. It creates emotional relief for entire families. An accessible trail doesn’t just benefit wheelchair users. It creates multigenerational outdoor access. Captioning, quiet spaces, step-free routes, adaptive recreation, audio guides, and inclusive programming often improve experiences for far more people than originally intended. Accessibility is becoming one of the few remaining ways destinations can visibly demonstrate care.” Learn more and join in with a panel discussion from organizations, businesses and travelers themselves who will talk about ways to create a welcoming space that is inviting to everyone in a traveling party.


3:00 pm – 3:45 pm: Alliance Update and Shaping the Future of Vermont's Visitor Economy
Shaping the Future of Vermont's Visitor Economy: Defining the Role of the Vermont Tourism Alliance

Tourism is one of Vermont's most important economic drivers, but its success depends on collaboration across businesses, organizations, and communities. This session will explore how the newly launched Vermont Tourism Alliance can help unite and strengthen Vermont's visitor economy through education, advocacy, and industry leadership. Participants will have the opportunity to share insights, identify priorities, and help shape a statewide organization designed to support tourism professionals and advance Vermont's tourism industry into the future.


3:45 pm – 4:30 pm: Brand Study 2.0
Vermont's New State Branding — and What It Means for You

​In a crowded travel landscape, being beloved isn’t enough; Vermont needs a story – and a dedicated tourism brand – that makes it irresistible. A sneak peak of the new brand positioning was shared this years’ Annual Tourism Summit. Now comes the big reveal to see how the new visual identity aligns with the brand platform to reposition Vermont beyond the expected, showcasing it as a rich, multifaceted destination that visitors feel compelled to experience

​4:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Networking Hour 

REGISTER HERE TO SAVE YOUR SPOT!


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Credit: Photos  courtesy  of ECHO

Paddle, Laugh, Repeat: Post Event Dragon Boating with Dragonheart Vermont

Our friends at Dragonheart Vermont have created a special Tourism Alliance Paddle event following the Summer Regional Event - Join us for an energizing, full-body workout wrapped in fresh air, lake views, and serious team spirit. Dragon boating blends strength, rhythm, and cardio into one powerful stroke, all while you’re moving in sync with a boat full of friends and colleagues!

When? Wednesday, July 29th, from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. 

Space on the boat is limited so REGISTER HERE TODAY

See you on July 29!