Read the latest updates from Destination DC's tourism team
NFL Draft Source Program - Application Now Open
NFL Source is a vendor procurement program connected to the 2027 NFL Draft in Washington, DC. It invites local, small and underrepresented businesses to apply for inclusion in a supplier directory shared with NFL contractors and event producers for potential subcontracting opportunities. Selection does not guarantee a contract, but provides networking and capacity-building benefits. Applications are open now through March 28.
On Feb. 27, the NFL hosted an information session attended by 1,000 local businesses interested in participating in the NFL Source program.
The Washington, DC Welcome
The Washington, DC Welcome is a new hire training program that provides an introduction to DC as a tourist destination. You can incorporate the 10-minute orientation video into new hire onboarding and further your staff’s knowledge with the in-depth Special Agent Academy. Please make your HR managers aware of these resources, now available in English and Spanish.
Special Agent Academy Milestone
The Washington, DC Special Agent Academy reached an impressive achievement: 1,000 graduates of the English language Core Missions Learning Path! The 1,000th graduate is a college intern learning about the hospitality and tourism industry in DC with domestic tour operator Landmark Educational Tours. Be on the lookout soon for this milestone on our social media channels. Congrats to the members at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens for graduating from the Special Agent Academy in February.
Spotlight
Convention Center Ambassador Destination Training (March 4, Washington, DC)
Attendee: Georgia Lucas
The Visitor Experience team presented a destination training and our Special Agent Academy program to the ambassadors at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The presentation focused on upcoming events and updates to popular attractions.
United Airlines Mexico Trade FAM (March 5-8, Washington, DC)
Attendees: Patricia Najar, Erika Jones & Frances Golla
The global tourism team hosted a four-day FAM from Mexico in partnership with United Airlines. The group included top tour operators from Mexico, selected based on their production results, and a trade media representative. The itinerary highlighted DC's neighborhoods and the authentic local experiences visitors can enjoy throughout the city. Mexico ranks among our top 10 international source markets.
Capitol Hill Hotel Destination Training (March 10, Washington, DC)
Attendee: Georgia Lucas
Georgia gave an in-person destination training for the staff at the Capitol Hill Hotel. This opportunity to tell DC’s story to frontline staff promoted our members as well as focused on upcoming DC250 events, wayfinding in the city and other new offerings in the District.
DC in Bloom Informational Webinar (March 10, Washington, DC)
Attendees/Speakers: Lindsay Hill & Georgia Lucas
DDC’s Visitor Experience team and the National Cherry Blossom Festival discussed the signature festival events and upcoming DC250 programs. This webinar provided essential springtime itinerary information and recommendations to frontline professionals and offered suggestions for members adding packages and specials for America’s 250th.
Joker Belgium FAM (March 28 – April 3, Washington, DC)
Attendees: Letizia Sirtori, Erika Jones & Frances Golla
DDC is pleased to welcome a group of travel agents from Joker, a longstanding DDC partner and leading tour operator in Belgium. Joker is a full-service travel company and the leading flight broker for Belgium’s B2B tour operators, with the U.S. as its top ticket destination.
SAVE THE DATE: National Cherry Blossom Festival & America250 Informational Webinar (March 10, virtual)
Join DDC Visitor Experience Manager Georgia Lucas and National Cherry Blossom Festival Director of Marketing and Communications Sarah Rabin Spira to highlight the signature events of the annual spring event. Additionally, the program will offer resources on how to create programs for America250 and promote them on our microsite.
February Visitor Experience Stats
Publications distributed: 18,680
Online requests: 4,801
Calls: 250
Chatbot engagements: 319
What three major questions have visitors asked?
- How do I navigate the city during the National Cherry Blossom Festival?
- How do I purchase tickets for the National Cherry Blossom Festival Opening Ceremony & the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®?
- What is a must-see attraction during my first visit to Washington, DC?
Check out the full Destination DC Member News to learn more about what's going on this month.
