POSTMARKED: ESSENTIAL
National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is the U.S. travel industry’s annual tradition of recognizing the essential role travel plays in powering our economy, strengthening communities and connecting America.
Established by U.S. Travel Association, NTTW brings the industry together each year to spotlight travel’s impact—from supporting 15 million jobs to generating critical tax revenue that funds public services and infrastructure in communities nationwide.
In 2026, the theme “Postmarked: Essential” highlights a simple truth: travel is not optional—it is fundamental to America’s economy, workforce and way of life. Every trip taken, every visitor welcomed and every experience created leaves a mark on communities across the country. Travel drives opportunity, fuels growth and keeps America connected.
As the nation looks ahead to major global moments and milestones—including its 250th anniversary—NTTW is a moment to recognize the industry that drives travel to and across America—and the communities it supports.
Ways to Get Involved with National Travel & Tourism Week
NEW this year we have created sponsorship packages to help your business get more brand awareness across the state as we celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week. If you have any questions about sponsorship, please contact Ruth@mdtourism.org. The Maryland Tourism Coalition is working with our members and partners organizations to bring you events across the state. Keep Checking back as we add more events!
MTC Sanctioned Events
May 4– Tourism Gives Back
Join us for a day of service and give back to your community!
May 5 – Maryland in a Day
Get ready for an unforgettable ride! Follow along on social media as Chris Riehl takes on the ultimate challenge—Maryland in a Day—in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. From historic landmarks to can’t-miss destinations that helped shape our nation, this adventure highlights the very best of Maryland’s story.
The journey kicks off in Southern Maryland and rolls all the way to Baltimore, with plenty of exciting stops along the way. You won’t want to miss a moment—be sure to follow along and experience the adventure in real time!
A special thank you to Blue Whale EV for powering the journey once again as we celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the Maryland in a Day Road Trip. Here’s to five years of exploration, storytelling, and showcasing all that makes Maryland shine!
May 8 – MTC Night at the Ballpark | Meritus Park, Hagerstown | 6:30pm
Fun for the whole family as we enjoy a night at Meritus Park to watch the Hagerstown Flying Boxcars take on the Long Island Ducks. It’s Hurkle Durkle Night! Wear your favorite Maryland or patriotic-themed PJs (yes pjs) to the game! The evening ends with fireworks, sponsored by Potomac Dental. Use the CODE: mtc2026 to get the discounted ticket rate. Buy tickets HERE
Make it an Overnight!
Tru by Hilton Hagerstown is offering a special room rate while rooms last.
Book by April 20. BOOK HERE
May 13 – Spring Industry Meet Up | Raw & Refined, Canton| 5:00pm – 7:00pm
The Maryland Tourism Coalition and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources invite you to join us for a Spring Industry Meet Up on Wednesday, May 13, from 5 pm-7 pm at Raw & Refined, located on the Canton Waterfront. This event serves as an industry meet-up, which means all attendees are responsible for their own food and drink purchases.
This event is FREE to attend and open to all tourism industry professionals, but registration is required as a courtesy to the venue.
Rain Date is May 20. Please register by April 29. Register HERE
Partner Sanctioned Events
May 5 – Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Partner Event | David’s Restaurant & Bar | 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
National Travel and Tourism Week is May 3-9, and we are excited to celebrate with our partners.
Join us for a presentation all about how you can strengthen your partnership with BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport! There will be updates from Adrienne Trout, director of the office of corporate and community relations at Maryland Aviation Administration, and April Richmond, our director of operations for VAAAC’s upcoming Welcome Center at BWI.
This is a wonderful chance to learn more about what is happening at BWI and how you can get involved. Bring business cards as there will be ample time for networking after the presentation with fellow industry partners.
May 6 – Visit Frederick Member Spring Social | Monocacy Brewing Company | 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Visit Frederick is celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week with their annual Spring Social! Come out and mingle with Visit Frederick members, enjoy food and refreshments, meet the Visit Frederick team, and learn more about the economic impact of tourism in Frederick County.
May 6 – Visit Montgomery Member Happy Hour | Tru Food Kitchen Rio | 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Join the Visit Montgomery team on May 6, 2026, at the True Food Kitchen in rio to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week and kick off Go MoCo Month with a happy hour. Enjoy great beverages, delicious food, and fantastic networking with fellow Montgomery County hospitality industry partners
May 7 – Maryland’s Coast Mixer | Welcome Center| 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Join us for an exclusive networking mixer at the newly renovated Welcome Center at the Maryland/Virginia state line. We’ll showcase recent improvements made possible through a generous EDA grant from the Maryland Department of Commerce along with the beautifully refreshed grounds that welcome visitors to our state each year. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and beverages while connecting with local business owners and community leaders. Celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week with us as we kick off the summer season on Maryland’s Coast!
May 9 – Maryland Craft Beer Festival | Carroll Creek Linear Park| 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm
The Brewers Association of Maryland returns to the Carroll Creek Linear Park in Frederick for the 2025 Maryland Craft Beer Festival, presented by Visit Frederick! Festival entry includes beer samples from DOZENS OF MARYLAND BREWERIES pouring more than 200 unique, beers – all brewed in Maryland. In addition, there will be live music and a tasty selection of local food and craft vendors throughout the festival. To learn more and to purchase tickets, click HERE
National Travel & Tourism Week Sponsors
Thank you to our Donors
