Topic(s):
Arts and Culture, Communication, Community Engagement, Recreation Programming, 2025 Conference Theme: Build Together, Play Together

Description:
Discover how a city in North Texas launched an expansive and ambitious plan to make their community a regional and statewide destination by rebranding itself as Halloween, Texas, and creating a month-long celebration filled with community-driven events and activities. In its inaugural year, Denton, Texas, achieved great success, resulting in a significant increase in visitors and sales tax revenue. The session will explore innovative strategies for enhancing local tourism and family entertainment through themed initiatives, showcasing successful partnerships with local businesses, engaging programming and community involvement. Participants will gain insights into the planning process, lessons learned and practical takeaways that can inspire similar initiatives in their own communities, creating opportunities to foster engagement and boost tourism year round.

Speaker(s):
Gary Packan
Autumn Natalie
Arianna Such