Dear Members,
As you heard at Marketing Outlook Meeting on Sept. 2, Destination DC (DDC) will leverage DC’s status as the country’s Sports Capital ahead of the NFL Draft, and more in the coming year. We hope you’ll dig into all the ways you help us market: share your story of why tourism matters, take advantage of all the major events and anniversaries coming in 2027 and use the data we shared (available on the Member Extranet) to make informed decisions in your own planning. Consider joining department committees for more in-depth information. Staying connected to DDC means you can keep your information current, host customers and media and amplify the city’s offerings. At this year’s meeting, members helped raise over $39,000 for NEXTDC, DDC’s affiliated nonprofit, which supports DC students and the next generation of hospitality leaders.
Fall is on the way and DC250 deals and events continue through the end of the year. The National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates 10 years this month, Theatre Week runs daily Sept. 24 to Oct. 11 and the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden reopens Oct. 31. Hispanic Heritage Month extends from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 – and all of this is just the tip of the iceberg in unmatched DC.
I want to take a moment to observe the 25th commemoration of September 11 this year. The National Museum of American History will mark this date with a special exhibit, and you can also reflect on the tragic events of 2001 with a visit to the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial.
Your feedback is important to us as we continue to enhance our annual Marketing Outlook Meeting. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey by Friday, Sept. 18.
As a thank you, you’ll get 10% off Fever events and be entered for a chance to win two Terra Club tickets to a Washington Nationals game.
DDC dues are not increasing in 2027.
In addition to online visibility, partner referrals and industry networking, consider taking advantage of other member benefits, available at no additional cost.
This member-only training helps you strengthen your sustainability efforts while learning how to communicate those practices effectively.
The training covers consumer demand, marketing strategies, sustainability certifications and provides practical tools and insights businesses can use to better position their sustainability initiatives.
Kick off fall in DC with a celebration of the city's vibrant theatre scene. See musicals, dramas, comedies and theatre for young audiences, plus plenty of free events.
In a city known for making history, Hargrove brings local expertise to DC’s most notable events. We design, build and deliver unforgettable galas, conventions and experiences across the District.
NFP, an Aon company, helps companies and individuals address today’s most significant risk capital and human capital challenges.
Marketing Highlight
- Dozens of local, national and international outlets covered DDC's announcements at Marketing Outlook Meeting that showcase opportunities to grow visitation and generate economic impact in the year ahead, including DC’s status as the Sports Capital of the country. With the NFL Draft coming to the city in 2027, a new professional volleyball team, major stadium renovations and more, the trophy goes to DC.
Earned Media
- International
- The Original Guide to Washington, DC – High Life
- Washington reveals itself as a new destination on summer nights – Mercado & Eventos
- Trade
- 2026-2027 Directory of Southern Meeting Sites (p. 137) – Convention South
- 5 New Venues in Washington, D.C., for Summer 2026 Meetings and Events – BizBash
Social Media
- Popular Leisure Content
- Popular Industry Content
- Top post: Career growth advice from Senior Vice President of Convention Sales & Services Melissa Riley
- Celebrating NEXTDC’s Career Ready Interns
- DC’s rooftops offer meeting attendees memorable skyline views
In August, the team tracked over 129 presentations, client sales calls, industry events and in-person meetings.
Recent & upcoming activities:
- Canadian Meetings and Events Expo – Aug. 11-12, Toronto
- American Society of Association Executives Annual Meeting & Expo – Aug. 15-18, Indianapolis
- Incentives, Business Travel & Meetings Americas – Aug. 19-20, Mexico City
- Freeman Golf Classic – Sept. 22, Washington, DC
- Destination Reps Destination Celebration – Sept. 29, Minneapolis and Kansas City, Missouri
This month, DDC's tourism team continues to promote travel to DC. The team will:
- Connect members to the Brazilian market with a Reverse Sales Mission
- Host travel agents and industry partners from China, Colombia, Spain and Taiwan to explore the city
- Meet UK and European industry leaders and tour operators in Amsterdam to discuss new product and build relationships
- Discuss our training resources with the local hospitality community
Top visitor questions:
- What access do I have or performances can I see with my DC JazzFest Ticket?
- If I buy a preferred or VIP DC JazzFest ticket, am I guaranteed a seat?
- Where do I park to visit the museums along the National Mall with all the road closures in place?
Industry Social: @DestinationDC
Leisure Social: @visitwashingtondc
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