Dear Members,
In light of the government shutdown, Destination DC (DDC) is highlighting can’t-miss events and experiences in the city through our DC is Open campaign. We’re carrying this message far and wide through social media, editorial, paid advertising and more. You’ll find extensive offerings on washington.org, including Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington’s Together We Dine initiative, running through Oct. 31.
A focus on growing international visitation continues. The tourism team and I recently returned from Routes World 2025 in Hong Kong. We are excited to promote the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority’s new nonstop route between Dulles and Beijing through Air China, which we anticipate will attract many travelers to discover for themselves why There’s Only One DC. This week is one of our most important convention sales events of the year for client engagement: IMEX America.
DDC wrapped up the fiscal year with 1,057 members – the highest total in its history. Your partnership allows us to showcase this amazing city in unique ways, which you’ll see reflected on washington.org all season long. October brings an abundance of festivals, spooky celebrations and fall fun, as well as Hispanic Heritage Month through Oct. 15.
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Elliott L. Ferguson, II
President & CEO
Destination DC
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Ensure your business website is accessible to all: Join Miles Partnership’s Development Manager, August Erickson, for a practical session presented in collaboration with DDC. You’ll come away with strategies to make your digital presence more inclusive and welcoming to people with disabilities.
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Join DDC’s Visitor Experience team for a seasonal update webinar designed for visitor- and customer-facing staff. We will cover winter events, key city updates, practical tips to boost accessibility, and opportunities for further training.
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Mark your calendar for DDC's annual Member Holiday Celebration. Learn more about NEXTDC and celebrate the end of the year with fellow members and DDC staff at the Square (1850 K Street NW).
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Who's hiring? Gain visibility through DDC's industry careers job board. Send your job listing to jobboard@washington.org and include:
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- Company name
- Job title
- Description
- Link to the posting
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Elevate your holiday celebration this year with Convene. Our downtown DC and Rosslyn locations offer stunning spaces, unparalleled hospitality and world-class cuisine for an unforgettable event.
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If you are looking to incorporate the "wow" factor into your next event, our stunning views will absolutely fit the bill. The Potomac View Terrace offers expansive views of the entire National Mall. The best of DC in one location.
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- Stay up-to-date with us through washington.org’s DC is Open page. Through this campaign, DDC ensures that all visitors understand the vast array of DC treasures and experiences that continue to be available to them regardless of a federal shutdown. A continuously updated list of what's open is also accessible.
- DDC launched We the People on washington.org. This remarkable video series spotlights the voices of DC locals who reflect the city’s rich culture, creativity and community. Each episode features local stories that show why there’s truly #Only1DC. Immerse yourself in the first of these videos about mural artist Trap Bob, and check back in the coming weeks as new videos and corresponding itineraries drop.
- DDC and Events DC were awarded the Event Marketing Campaign of the Year award from Sports Events and Tourism Association (Sports ETA). The award was presented during the Sports ETA Annual 4S Summit in Annapolis, MD on Sept. 25, in recognition of DDC's paid media efforts during WorldPride, which "delivered world-class results," according to John David, President and CEO of Sports ETA.
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- Leisure-facing Content:
- Industry Updates:
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In September, the team tracked over 173 presentations, virtual client sales calls and in-person meetings.
Recent activities:
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- Freeman Golf Classic (Sept. 9, Dulles, VA)
- Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Philadelphia Education Day & Trade Show (Sept. 10, Philadelphia, PA)
- Hospitality Industry Crab Feast (Sept. 24, Washington, DC)
- American Society of Association Executives Summit Awards (Sept. 25, Washington, DC)
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DDC’s tourism team continues to meet with clients from around the world to highlight travel to DC.
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This month, the team will:
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- Partner with American Airlines, NAAR Tour Operator and Qantas Airways on welcoming travel agents from Italy, Australia and New Zealand
- Build relationships and sell our product in China, the UK and the US, specifically targeting the sports, FIT and LGBTQ+ markets
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Top visitor questions last month:
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- How and where can I rent an electric scooter (accessibility)?
- What events are happening this month?
- When will the Fall/Winter guides be available?
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Industry Social Channels: @DestinationDC
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Leisure Social Channels: @visitwashingtondc
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