HICKORY, N.C. (February 18, 2026) — More than 105 tourism partners gathered in Hickory on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, for Visit Hickory’s 2nd Annual Tourism Partner Summit — a day dedicated to strengthening connections and advancing tourism throughout Catawba County. Held at the Hickory Metro Convention Center, the Summit marked the organization’s largest annual partner event and reflected growing collaboration and momentum within the local tourism community.
Centered around the theme “Oh Hey! Let’s Grow,” the Summit built on the success of its inaugural year, which welcomed approximately 75 attendees in 2025. This year’s increase in participation highlights expanding engagement among hotels, attractions, restaurants, shops, museums, and tourism-related businesses throughout the Hickory area. Regional partners from Blowing Rock, Boone, Burke County, Mount Airy, and Wilkes County also joined the event, along with special guests representing Our State Magazine and Accent Creative Group.
Visit Hickory President & CEO Mandy Hildebrand and Renee Keever, Chair of the Hickory-Conover Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA), welcomed attendees and emphasized the value of collaboration in enhancing visitor experiences and supporting economic growth.
The day blended big-picture insights with practical strategies partners could apply immediately. Sarah Benoit, Lead Instructor and Producer of Learn Tourism, presented AI Simplified: 5 Moves to Save Time & Drive Results, offering approachable, actionable guidance on how small businesses can leverage artificial intelligence to streamline marketing efforts and improve results.
Following a locally sourced lunch from Liazzo’s Catering, Scott Peacock, Director of Tourism Marketing and Communications at Visit North Carolina, shared a statewide tourism update, highlighting North Carolina’s national rankings, current marketing initiatives, and forecasts shaping 2026 and beyond.
“This Summit is about equipping our partners with the tools, insights, and connections they need to thrive,” said Sarah Jones, Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Tourism Development for Visit Hickory. “When we collaborate and grow together, it strengthens not only our individual businesses but the entire Hickory area.”
Beyond the presentations, the Summit created intentional opportunities for meaningful connection. Through interactive “Growth Rounds” and guided reflection activities, attendees exchanged ideas, strengthened relationships, and identified clear next steps to move their businesses forward. The atmosphere throughout the day reflected a shared commitment to continued growth.
“What makes this event special is the collaboration it sparks,” said Elizabeth Clark, Marketing Manager for Visit Hickory. “Our partners are building real relationships and walking away with momentum they can carry forward all year.”
The Summit concluded with Visit Hickory marketing updates, including website performance, the Destination Guide, social media engagement, and ongoing partner communications efforts.
For more information about Visit Hickory’s Partner Program, please visit the Partners page at https://www.visithickorync.com/industry/partners/.
About Visit Hickory: Visit Hickory is the official destination marketing organization for Hickory, North Carolina. Dedicated to promoting the community’s rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty, Visit Hickory connects travelers with unforgettable experiences in the heart of Catawba County. The mission of the HCTDA is to market and enhance the economy of the Hickory Metro by promoting conventions, meetings, and travelers to the area. For more information, visit www.visithickorync.com.
Media Contact:
Sarah Jones
Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Tourism Development
Visit Hickory
828.322.1335
Sarah@visithickorync.com
