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 6 – MTC Spring Seminar | Dove Pointe| 10:00 am -4:00 pm
Travel should be transformative, welcoming, and accessible to all. Inclusive Journeys is a forward-looking seminar designed to equip tourism professionals, destination leaders, hospitality providers, and experience designers with the tools to create travel environments that meaningfully serve individuals with both visible and invisible disabilities. From mobility and sensory considerations to neurodiversity, chronic illness, and mental health conditions, this session expands the accessibility conversation beyond compliance toward intentional, human-centered design. More info HERE
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
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 5pm-7pm 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. Registration coming soon!
Partner Sanctioned Events
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 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
