Destinations International and Visit Detroit Announce First-Ever “Destination Professionals Day”
Celebrating the Pioneers and Innovators Driving Tourism, Economic Growth and Community Vitality
Washington, D.C. (February 19, 2025) — Destinations International (DI), the world’s leading and most respected association representing destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), is proud to join Visit Detroit in announcing the launch of an annual celebration recognizing the invaluable contributions of destination professionals worldwide. February 19, 2025, will mark the inaugural Destination Professionals Day, honoring the people and organizations that drive tourism, economic growth and community vitality.
The date holds special significance in the history of the destination organization sector. On February 19, 1896, members of the Detroit Chamber of Commerce and the Detroit Manufacturers Club came together at the Cadillac Hotel in Detroit, Michigan, to form the world’s first destination organization, the Detroit Convention and Businessman’s League. With a mission of “hustling for conventions,” this group laid the foundation for an industry that has since grown into a global economic driver.
“February 19, 1896, was a defining moment for the travel and tourism industry,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “From that meeting in Detroit to today’s vast network of destination organizations, professionals have played a vital role in shaping thriving communities and economies around the world. Destination Professionals Day is our opportunity to celebrate their contributions and inspire future generations to join this exciting and impactful field.”
“As the birthplace of the destination organization industry, Detroit is honored to be recognized on this momentous occasion,” said Claude Molinari, CDME, President and CEO of Visit Detroit. “The legacy of those early pioneers continues to inspire us as we champion our incredible region, and as other destination organizations worldwide promote their own communities as hubs of innovation, culture and economic opportunity.”
From that first destination organization in 1896 to today, the industry has flourished. Now, there are more than 10,000 destination organizations around the world representing a broad spectrum of entities, including destination marketing organizations (DMOs), convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), tourism boards, sports commissions and film offices. These organizations are a cornerstone of the travel and tourism industry, which employs almost 348 million people and was expected to contribute about 10% of global GDP – more than $11 trillion – to the global economy in 2024, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.
Recognizing February 19 as Destination Professionals Day aims to raise awareness by highlighting the vital contributions of destination professionals in enriching community life and driving economic development; celebrate the achievements and recognize the hard work and dedication of destination professionals across all roles and organizations; and inspire future destination leaders by showcasing the diverse and rewarding career opportunities available in the sector to attract the next generation of professionals.
Why February 19 Matters
The selection of February 19 as Destination Professionals Day pays homage to the pioneering efforts of Detroit business leaders in 1896 and their vision of the potential for promoting their city as a destination for conventions and events. Their foresight and collaboration sparked a global movement that continues to transform destinations into ideal places to visit, live, work, play and invest.
Join Us in Celebrating the Inaugural Destination Professionals Day
Destinations International invites destination organizations, partners and community stakeholders worldwide to join in recognizing Destination Professionals Day on February 19, 2025. Share your stories, celebrate your teams and help us shine a spotlight on the incredible work being done to make destinations thrive. More information, including a toolkit, is available online.
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About Destinations International
Destinations International is the world’s largest and most respected resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), and tourism boards. With more than 8,000 members and partners from over 750 destinations, the association represents a powerful forward-thinking and collaborative community around the world. For more information, visit destinationsinternational.org.
About Visit Detroit
Visit Detroit is the official destination marketing organization for the tri-county region of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties and the city of Detroit, dedicated to promoting Detroit as a world-class destination for leisure and business travelers. With a focus on showcasing the region’s dynamic culture, rich history, and diverse attractions, Visit Detroit aims to drive tourism, economic growth, and community pride. Visit Detroit was founded in 1896 as the world’s first convention and visitors bureau, and more than 900 businesses are represented in the membership. For more information go to visitdetroit.com.
Media Contacts
Tim Smith
VP of Communications, Destinations International
[email protected]
1.425.577.4499
Meg Griffith
Media Relations Manager, Visit Detroit
[email protected]
1.313.859.1071
Tim Smith has 20+ years of strategic communications experience spanning roles in government, industry, agency and association settings. Most recently, he led corporate communications for Delaware North, a global leader in travel, hospitality and entertainment. Previously, he was Managing Director – West Coast at APCO Worldwide and Executive Vice President, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at Edelman, providing clients with senior communications and public affairs counsel. He has lived and worked outside the United States for more than a decade, including as a U.S.