PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2026

CVB Contact: Sheila Snow
Phone: 318.387.5691
E-mail: ssnow@monroe-westmonroe.org

Discover Monroe-West Monroe Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week
Tourism Bureau to Receive Two Proclamations Today

MONROE-WEST MONROE, La. – Discover Monroe-West Monroe (DMWM) is proud to join a nationwide celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, (NTTW) May 3-9, 2026, recognizing the travel industry's vital contributions to the U.S. economy. This year’s celebration takes on special significance as the country prepares to host historic events that will put local communities on the global stage.

“The World Cup is weeks away. America's 250th birthday is right behind it. Tens of millions of visitors are coming, and the travel industry is what makes that possible. National Travel and Tourism Week is our moment to make sure every policymaker, every community leader and every American understands what is at stake and what this industry delivers,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “The numbers speak for themselves: $3 trillion, fifteen million jobs and a decade of global events about to arrive on our doorstep.”

Since its establishment in 1983, NTTW has showcased how travel fosters connection and builds the foundation for the quintessential American experience. This year’s theme, “Postmarked: Essential,” highlights that in every corner of the country, travel is a foundational pillar of growth, leaving an indelible mark on our local economies and culture. The industry's economic contributions are undeniable.

Travel generates $3 trillion in economic output and supports 15 million jobs, representing a significant 2.4% of America’s GDP.

Here in Ouachita Parish, the travel industry is a vital economic engine, delivering Louisiana $30,944,116.67 in 2025. With an established brand for sports tourism, different agencies across the board such as hotels, restaurants and attractions have been impacted by sporting events. To mark this year’s celebration, DMWM received a proclamation from the City of Monroe at City Hall Monday morning and will receive another one this afternoon in honor of its 50th anniversary:

- West Monroe City Hall at 6 p.m.

“The energy and growth in Ouachita Parish are only made possible by our thriving travel industry,” said DMWM’s President and CEO Alana Cooper. “Participating in National Travel and Tourism Week allows us to celebrate the businesses and individuals who make our community a competitive, world-class destination for domestic and international visitors alike for years to come.”

Visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.

Join DMWM on Thursday, May 7, 2026, for the Golden Heron Awards at The Hotel Monroe’s Opera House Ballroom to celebrate 50 years of leisure and sports tourism in Ouachita Parish.

Find tickets here.


About Discover Monroe-West Monroe

Discover Monroe-West Monroe promotes Ouachita Parish as a destination for leisure travel, conventions, meetings and sporting events, creating a positive economic impact for our local community through increased visitor spending and sales tax collections. For more information about Discover Monroe-West Monroe, visit https://www.monroe-westmonroe.org/