Texas Tourism Week, May 10-18

In recognition of the Texas travel industry’s contributions to the state’s economy, Governor Rick Perry proclaimed May 10-18, 2008, Texas Tourism Week. Texas Tourism Week coincides with National Tourism Week in which cities, states and travel-related businesses celebrate the value and economic impact of tourism.

This year, First Lady Anita Perry will help celebrate Texas Tourism Week with the unveiling of a new and exciting marketing initiative, Texas on Tour, a 53-foot mobile marketing experience that will travel throughout the United States after its debut in Dallas on May 14, 2008.Texas on Tour will be free and open to the public from noon to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, May 14-16 at Victory Park in Dallas.

“From the lush forests to the sandy beaches and the rolling hills to the scenic mountains, the Texas landscape is as diverse as our tourist attractions,” said First Lady Anita Perry. “Texas on Tour will reach millions of Americans and showcase the many exciting destinations Texas has to offer.” 

Texas on Tour is a high-tech, interactive, mobile marketing exhibit featuring virtual reality, holograms, green screen video and photography, interactive games and more. Texas on Tour transports the consumer to unique outdoor Texas experiences that are highly entertaining, educational and personalized – from a virtual reality kayaking trip through Texas waterways to a dome theatre with a holographic cowboy singing by a campfire. Live performances from a variety of Texas musicians will also be featured at each stop.

"Texas on Tour will travel to 15 destinations outside of Texas in 2008  to promote tourism to Texas and give potential visitors the ability to truly experience the sights and sounds of the Lone Star State through a high-tech, interactive Texas tourism showcase,” said Julie Chase, Chief Marketing Officer, Texas Tourism. "Texas on Tour complements our advertising campaign efforts. It is designed to generate an emotional response from participants as they experience the various attractions that Texas has to offer.”

During Texas Tourism Week, the state’s tourism industry promotes the importance of tourism to Texans.  As residents begin planning their vacations for this summer and throughout the year, they are encouraged to explore our great state and discover all the exciting, one-of-a-kind vacation options Texas has to offer.   

Cities throughout the Lone Star State are taking the opportunity during Texas Tourism Week to recognize the importance of tourism in their communities by hosting celebratory activities and recognition ceremonies.  For a complete list of these activities and information about Texas Tourism Week visit www.travel.state.tx.us.

Tourism is recognized as a powerful economic development tool in Texas, producing revenue and jobs. In 2006, travelers generated almost $54 billion in direct travel spending, and the travel industry employed 521,000 Texans. Texas is one of the most visited states in the United States.

To find out more about all the vacation destinations and travel events in Texas, call 1-800-8888-TEX or visit www.TravelTex.com.