Join us for the TACVB Winter Conference Destination Tour, a unique experience that promises to blend Abilene's rich heritage with its forward-looking vision.

Our first stop will be Chike Nutrition for a firsthand look at their top-tier nutritional product manufacturing. Then, witness pioneering nuclear science research at Abilene Christian University's NEXT Lab. The tour culminates at Frontier Texas, an interactive museum that vividly brings the Old West to life, showcasing Abilene's historical charm and contemporary vision.

Dive deep into Abilene's essence, where honoring the past coexists with bold strides toward the future, immersing yourself in genuine Texas traditions and heritage along the way. Tour is a DMS & TDM requirement.

$50

Destination Marketing Principles is a one-of-a-kind educational session that provides a comprehensive overview of destination management and marketing. This interactive session covers DMO structures, occupancy tax, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, budgeting, measuring success, and more.

Whether you are new to the DMO industry or are a seasoned veteran, this session gives you the best overview of the DMO world all in one class.

This is an opportunity to build on your future, so don’t miss out - register today!

Presented by Mark Thompson, Director, Visit Plano, and Amy Zientek, Director of Sales and Services, Visit Lubbock

$50 - DMS & TDM Requirement

Join us for an insightful session covering the fundamentals of tourism marketing. This introductory presentation provides valuable perspectives and actionable insights to elevate your tourism marketing efforts, with case studies and practical tools to enhance your marketing strategies.

In this session, you’ll learn:

* Latest trends in marketing
* The pivotal role of data
* Effectively navigating the marketing funnel using appropriate tools and mediums for each phase
* Mastering the art of determining ROI on marketing investments

Presented by Emily Zertuche, Chief Marketing Officer at Visit Corpus Christi, and Chris Riggins, Director of Marketing and Communications at Destination Bryan

$75 - DMS Elective

There are many tools available to help with the work of Self Awareness, Self Management and Relationship Development. During this interactive portion of the session, we will work with the Birkman Assessment (available to all participants to take in advance of the class) to understand the dynamics of how people's interests, strengths, needs, and stress behaviors all impact workplace culture - and how the commitment to a deeper understanding of ourselves and others can lead to powerful workplace culture transformations.
Presented by Meg Winchester, CDME, CMP, Fired Up! Culture

Class includes a Birkman Assessment & Review $175 (includes assessment and debrief with coach)

Limited to 40 attendees.

Prepare to light up the night at the TACVB Winter Conference's "Neon Retro Reception" at D&W Underground. This vintage venue, once a 1927 Buick dealership, perfectly captures Abilene's fusion of historical charm and modern style. As you marvel at the stunning collection of historic neon signs, enjoy a backdrop that transports you back in time with nostalgic music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Join us as we reconnect with old friends and make new acquaintances while celebrating the warm hospitality and rich Texas heritage of Abilene.

Click HERE for the Leadership track agenda

Click HERE for the Marketing track agenda

Click HERE for the Sales track agenda

Click HERE for the Leadership track agenda

Click HERE for the Marketing track agenda

Click HERE for the Sales track agenda

Join us on a culinary adventure in the heart of Abilene with our Downtown Food Tour where you’ll have the opportunity to savor a variety of food pairings at some of the city’s most beloved local restaurants. This flavorful journey is your ticket to exploring the authentic flavors of Abilene, a city rich in both taste and tradition.

Cost is $50. Register NOW as spaces are limited! If you’ve already registered for the conference and would like to add this tour to your registration please email kathleen@tacvb.org