Travel and Tourism Week in Texas May 4-10, 2025
Travel and Tourism Week is May 4-10, 2025
Travel industry workers across the country will celebrate the annual National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) from May 4-10.
Governor Greg Abbott proclaimed May 4-10 as Travel and Tourism week in Texas. This annual celebration highlights the travel industry's essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening the nation's global competitiveness.
In Texas, travel and tourism are critical economic drivers. A research study recently completed by Travel Texas shows a record-breaking 62 million travelers visited Texas in 2024 from across the country and around the world, alongside over 67 million Texas travelers visiting destinations within the state on overnight trips.
The resilient and growning industry generated an economic impact of $199.5 billion, supporting 1.3 million Texas jobs and $79.7 billion in earnings last year. Additionally, travel and tourism generated $9.2 billion in state and local taxes.
During National Travel and Tourism Week, there are events in communities across the state demonstrating how much travel and tourism benefits Texas. Check out the events below to see how you can participate in these National Travel and Tourism themed events showcasing the significance of the travel industry in the Lone Star State!
It's hard not to get excited about National Travel and Tourism week when you have so much to show off! May your Texas travels this season be thrilling. #LetsTexas #TexasToDo
Austin
Give Back Gig: May 7
Let’s celebrate for a cause, Austin-style, at the Give Back Gig on Wednesday, May 7. Hosted by the Visit Austin Foundation during National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW), this event celebrates our industry and supports a great cause. NTTW highlights the vital role of our industry in driving the local Austin economy, fostering vibrant communities, and building connections. This year’s Give Back Gig will honor some of Austin’s hottest MICHELIN-recognized chefs alongside talented students from the local Travis Early College High School culinary program for a unique tasting experience.
Chefs include:
- Chef Alexa Mejia | Emmer & Rye
- Chef Edgar Rico | Nixta Taqueria
- Chef Evan LeRoy | LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue
- Chef Jesse Griffiths | Dai Due
- Chef Amanda Turner and Michael Fojtasek | Olamaie (VIP Reception Only)
Bandera
Celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week: May 8
Join us in celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week with an exciting evening of wine, music, and community and visitors on May 8th from 5–7 PM! Enjoy a lively reception featuring live music by a local artist, delicious catering by the Bandera High School Culinary Arts Department, door prizes, and more. Let’s toast to the power of travel, enjoy great company, and celebrate everything that makes Bandera a beloved travel destination. We look forward to seeing you there!
Gruene
Laredo
- Monday (5/5): Proclamation Ceremony- The City of Laredo will officially commence NTTW with a proclamation ceremony at City Hall. Local leaders will highlight the significance of tourism to Laredo's economy and culture. Attendees are encouraged to wear teal in support of the "Teal for Tourism" theme.
- Tuesday (5/6): Visit Laredo Gift Shop Pop-Up at City Hall & Webinar Class- Explore the Visit Laredo Gift Shop POP-UP at City Hall, featuring unique, locally-inspired merchandise. Additionally, participate in a webinar class offering insights into Laredo's tourism industry and ways to get involved in promoting the city.
- Wendesday (5/7): Unveil of the Taco Map Trail- Join the unveiling of the Taco Map Trail, an initiative guiding visitors to Laredo's best taco spots. This event offers a flavorful way to explore the city's vibrant food scene.
- Thursday (5/8): Visit Laredo Gift Shop Pop-Up at Annex- The Visit Laredo GiftShop POP-UP returns, this time at the Annex, offering more Laredo-themed products. It's an opportunity to support local businesses and take home a piece of the city's unique charm.
- Friday (5/9): Scavenger Hunt- Conclude NTTW with an exciting Scavenger Hunt across Laredo. Participants will explore the city, solve clues, and discover hidden gems, all while learning about Laredo's history and attractions. Prizes awate those who complete the challenge.
Lufkin
Lufkins Hidden Gems, A Week of Discovery & Downtown Fun: May 4-10
Lufkin is celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week with a self-guided showcase of local flavor, family fun, and cultural pride. Each day highlights a different “hidden gem,” from foodie spots and antique shops to outdoor escapes and zoo adventures. Guests can enjoy a limited-edition coloring book at the Ellen Trout Zoo and take part in a community photo feature on Saturday.
Port Aransas
Tourism Rally & Hospitality Heroes Celebration: May 6
Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with us at our 5th annual Tourism Rally! The rally will take place at the Patton Center–Marine Science Institute (855 E. Cotter Ave.) on May 6th. Join us from 4 to 6 p.m. for a movie-themed celebration of our island's Hospitality Heroes with your favorite movie-night snacks, a red carpet, and a screening of all three of 2025's Salty Stories.
Travel matters to everyone who calls Texas home.
- Link to US Travel National Travel and Tourism Week Toolkit
- Check out the Travel Texas Research Page for the latest tourism economic data.