Registration Opens for Destinations International 2025 Annual Convention in Chicago, Illinois, USA, July 9-11!
Join industry leaders from around the world for three days of cutting-edge insights, networking and transformative discussions on the future of destination marketing and management.
Washington, D.C. (March 5, 2025) -- Destinations International (DI), the world’s leading and most respected association representing destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), is pleased to announce that registration is now open for its premier event, the DI Annual Convention, which will take place July 9-11, 2025, in Chicago, IL, USA. The event offers an unparalleled opportunity for destination professionals to connect, collaborate and gain cutting-edge insights into the evolving landscape of destination marketing and management.
“Our 2025 Annual Convention will highlight the indispensable role of destination organizations in fostering community engagement, sustainability and responsible tourism,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of Destinations International. “As the industry continues to adapt to new challenges and opportunities, we look forward to welcoming professionals to Chicago from around the world for an event filled with impactful learning, networking and strategies for innovation, workforce development and destination stewardship. We extend our gratitude to Choose Chicago and the entire local team for their partnership in making this a must-attend experience.”
"We are thrilled to host Destinations International's 2025 Annual Convention in Chicago," said Richard Gamble, Interim President & CEO of Choose Chicago. "This event is an incredible opportunity for leaders in our industry to experience the energy, cultural diversity and economic vibrancy of our great city. We look forward to sharing Chicago’s dynamic tourism offerings while fostering meaningful discussions that will shape the future of destination organizations worldwide."
The convention will feature:
• Engaging sessions focused on key issues impacting the industry.
• Opportunities to connect with peers and industry thought leaders.
• A comprehensive approach to learning for professionals from destinations of all sizes and disciplines.
• Relationship-driven networking with industry partners.
Early Registration Pricing
Following record attendance at a sold-out Annual Convention in 2024, Destinations International encourages early registration to take advantage of special pricing available for a limited time. Early bird pricing is available through April 3. Don't miss this opportunity to participate in the industry's most anticipated event of the year.
Pre-Convention Workshops
Prior to the opening of the Annual Convention, attendees also can participate in pre-event, add-on workshops. Additional registration is required.
• Destinations International’s Tools Symposium, July 9, 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (US$249) This half-day event will provide hands-on insights into key tools, including the Event Impact Calculator (EIC) and its modules, the Symphony Platform and the Website Impact Calculator (WIC). In collaboration with Tourism Economics, the symposium will equip users with best practices, case studies and actionable strategies to maximize the impact of these sector-leading tools.
• Expedia Group Media Solutions Session: Capturing Your Next Traveler When It Matters Most, July 9, 1:00-4:00 p.m. (Complimentary for Annual Convention attendees on a space-available basis.) Join the team from Expedia Group Media Solutions for the latest industry insights and traveler trends shaping travel marketing decisions. From AI to audience extension and everything in between, these travel advertising experts will show how you can reach your next best traveler when you need it most.
• Civitas Funding Forum, July 9, 1:00-4:00 p.m. (US$199 for members, US$299 for non-members.) In an era of uncertain budgets and shifting priorities, destinations cannot afford to rely on traditional funding models. The Civitas Funding Forum brings together the brightest minds in destination management to tackle today's most complex funding challenges head-on. At this one-of-a-kind session, you'll gain the connections, insights, advocacy perspectives and roadmap needed to secure your destination's financial resilience for years to come – because in today's competitive landscape, innovative funding backed by strategic advocacy isn't just an advantage: it's essential for survival.
Additional Events Taking Place in Chicago
Alongside the 2025 Annual Convention, registration also is open for the Visitor Services Summit (VSS) on July 9 and Summer CDME Courses from July 12-15, 2025, offering strategic insights into destination management, advocacy and leadership.
For more information or to register for the 2025 Annual Convention visit destinationsinternational.org.
