GRCVB is proud to join the U.S. Travel Association in an annual celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) May 3-9, 2026, recognizing the travel industry’s vital contributions to the U.S. economy. This year’s celebration takes on special significance as the country prepares to host historic events that will put local communities on the global stage.

“The World Cup is weeks away. America’s 250th birthday is right behind it. Tens of millions of visitors are coming, and the travel industry is what makes that possible. National Travel and Tourism Week is our moment to make sure every policymaker, every community leader and every American understands what is at stake and what this industry delivers,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “The numbers speak for themselves: $3 trillion, fifteen million jobs and a decade of global events are about to arrive on our doorstep.”

Since its establishment in 1983, NTTW has showcased how travel fosters connection and builds the foundation for the quintessential American experience. This year’s theme, “Postmarked: Essential,” highlights that in every corner of the country, travel is a foundational pillar of growth, leaving an indelible mark on our local economies and culture. The industry’s economic contributions are undeniable.

To align with GRCVB and U.S. Travel, area partners can access the NTTW toolkit here for helpful resources, including key messages, social media posts, graphics and brand guidelines. Below are some messaging points to share:

• NTTW shines a spotlight on the U.S. travel industry’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.
   
• Travel is a $3 trillion industry that supports 15 million American jobs while fueling growth across nearly every sector—from manufacturing and healthcare to education and agriculture—and supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship nationwide.
  • Wake County’s industry sector represents $3.4 billion and 26,261 direct-impact jobs within our national total. (More quick facts about the impact of tourism and visitor expenditures in Wake County can be found here.)

• Travel strengthens America’s position on the global stage. As one of our top service exports, travel plays a critical role in driving trade and U.S. global competitiveness.
   
• Travel is a catalyst for connection and opportunity. It brings people together—families, businesses, communities—laying the foundation for collaboration, lasting relationships and shared progress.

Partners posting can use #NTTW26 to amplify this messaging, while tailoring more copy and graphics to their own roles in travel/tourism, and can visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about NTTW.