FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 11, 2025
Hickory Hosts 2025 Visit NC Tourism Conference, Welcomes Tourism Leaders from Across the State
HICKORY, NC — For the first time in its history, Hickory proudly served as the host city for the 2025 Visit NC Tourism Conference, welcoming nearly 520 tourism professionals from across North Carolina from April 6–8, 2025.
The annual conference—an essential gathering for tourism leaders, marketing professionals, and industry stakeholders—celebrates North Carolina’s vibrant travel economy and the collaborative efforts that help communities thrive through tourism. The event offers educational sessions, one-on-one media appointments, and valuable networking opportunities focused on promoting the state’s tourism initiatives and elevating visitor experiences.
As the 2025 host city, Visit Hickory had the opportunity to showcase its thriving tourism scene and genuine hospitality. The conference kicked off with a dynamic opening night celebration at Cranford Brothers BBQ and City Walk Brewing & Distilling, two of Hickory’s local favorites. The event featured interactive culinary stations highlighting a variety of Hickory’s top dining establishments, giving attendees a true taste of the region’s culinary culture.
Guests enjoyed live entertainment, guided tours of the distillery and brewery, and special touches that made the evening unforgettable—including a custom “Oh, Hey Golden Honey Ale” brewed specially for the occasion and a “dip-your-own” bottle station for personalized spirits. The welcoming evening set the tone for a successful and engaging conference experience.
“Hosting the Visit NC Tourism Conference was an incredible opportunity to showcase what makes Hickory special and something we have been hoping for now for over a decade,” said Mandy P. Hildebrand, CEO of Visit Hickory. “We were honored to welcome our peers and friends from across the state and proud to highlight the people, places, and experiences that define our community.”
Sunday's opening reception and dinner offered the perfect opportunity for attendees to meet and greet in downtown Hickory. On Monday, tourism, business, and government leaders from across the state gathered for the keynote and a variety of informative sessions, with additional sessions on Tuesday morning.
The Visit NC Tourism Conference rotates annually among North Carolina’s diverse destinations, providing a platform for cities and regions to share their stories while discovering the innovations and successes of their peers. Hickory’s role as the 2025 host city allowed attendees to experience firsthand the city’s continued growth, authentic charm, and commitment to hospitality.
For more information about Visit Hickory and upcoming events in the region, visit www.visithickorync.com
For more information about Visit NC and the Tourism Conference, visit here.
