Tourism Industry News & Resources | |
This partner communication exists to provide updates on Sonoma County Tourism’s programs and offerings, along with additional news and resources to support Sonoma County’s tourism and hospitality industry. | |
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As we get further into Autumn and the rains begin, I am reminded how extraordinary Sonoma County truly is for both residents and visitors. We are beholden to Mother Nature for providing so much that creates the foundation that drives our existence. We celebrate the tireless work of our hospitality and agriculture workers (all of them) who complete the cycles of production. At every turn, we find tests and triumphs and we’re stronger when we support each other. We often convey Mark Twain’s saying: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow mindedness.” Let’s be sure when travelers come to Sonoma County seeking a respite from all that life hands them, that we create a welcome that’s both humble and joyful. Sonoma County truly can be a beacon and a haven for all.
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Sonoma County Tourism & Tourism Exchange USA: Supplier Webinar | |
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Boost Your Bookings & Reach Domestic and International Visitors!
In partnership with BrandUSA and Tourism Exchange USA, SCT is launching a program designed to help Sonoma County’s tourism businesses expand their online bookings and attract international visitors.
Tourism Exchange USA is a B2B digital marketplace that connects local tourism businesses like yours with a vast network of OTAs, travel distributors, and international buyers. This program will make your business accessible to new audiences, boost your visibility, and support your online booking capability—even if this is your first time offering online bookings.
To learn more, join us for an exclusive industry webinar on 9am on Thursday, November 21. If you’d like to jump in as an early adopter, you can start the application process at Tourism Exchange USA. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
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Last Chance! Supercharge Your Event – SCT Sponsorship Applications Close Nov. 15 | |
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Time’s almost up!
Sonoma County Tourism’s Special Event Sponsorship program closes November 15. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to take your event to new heights with funding, visibility, and support to reach wider audiences.
Who’s Eligible?
If you’re hosting an event in Sonoma County and can help generate overnight stays, you’re welcome to apply. Awards range from $5,000 to $10,000 (up to $25,000 for select events) with extra consideration for midweek, off-peak events that strengthen local partnerships.
What You’ll Receive
Beyond financial support, awardees gain brand visibility through SCT’s promotional partnerships and PR activities, elevating your event to must-see status.
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Maximize Your Visibility This Holiday Season! | |
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Get Noticed This Holiday Season!
During the colder months, share your seasonal deals and special offers—from budget-friendly steals to luxury splurges and off-peak specials—by emailing publicrelations@sonomacounty.com, and we’ll highlight them on our site and share them with our media contacts to help attract more guests.
For an added boost, submit festive photos that capture the season’s magic at your business to showcase your unique holiday spirit, reaching a wider audience looking for places to dine, stay, and explore in Sonoma County. We’re seeking high-quality, horizontally framed imagery that celebrates the holidays in an inclusive, welcoming way—think cozy decor, winter vineyard scenes, or special holiday experiences unique to your spot. Submit festive images to our digital asset library.
Finally, increase your business's visibility by ensuring holiday travelers and locals alike know you're open by tagging your listing in SCT's Hospitality Hub. Tag your business as “Open on Thanksgiving” or “Open on Christmas” as well as any other relevant tags to appear on our popular holiday pages.
How to Tag Your Business
- Log into the Hospitality Hub
- Select Profile on the left sidebar
- Select Accounts
- Use the dropdown arrow to select Manage Amenities
- Find the “Holiday Openings” section
- Select the relevant tags, such as “Open on Thanksgiving” or “Open on Christmas Eve/Day”
- Save to appear on our holiday pages!
Need help? Email hospitalityhub@sonomacounty.com for support.
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Vacation Rental Newsletter: Subscribe Today! | |
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Stay Ahead with the Sonoma County Vacation Rental Insights Newsletter!
Get the latest research, marketing tips, and important updates tailored specifically for Sonoma County’s vacation rental community. Designed to help drive your success, this quarterly newsletter brings you valuable insights and timely information to keep your business thriving. Subscribe now and be part of a community dedicated to excellence in short-term rentals!
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Recap: SCT at Brand USA Travel Week U,K. & Europe | |
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Sonoma County Tourism’s CEO, Claudia Vecchio, and Director of Travel Trade, Percy Stevens, represented Sonoma County at Brand USA Travel Week U.K. & Europe, a premier global travel event that brings together top industry leaders to inspire international visitation to the U.S.
Why This Matters to Our Business Community
International travelers contribute significantly to the local economy through extended stays and higher spending. Connections forged at Brand USA Travel Week are key to attracting these visitors, supporting Sonoma County’s hotels, restaurants, wineries, and attractions.
Through this event, Sonoma County Tourism aims to:
- Cultivate strategic relationships with global travel influencers
- Expand reach through new partnerships
- Promote Sonoma County as a premier destination for international travelers
By engaging in this influential gathering, SCT’s leaders are driving Sonoma County’s visibility and economic growth on a global scale.
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Get Ready for Restaurant Week!
Planning is underway for this year’s Restaurant Week, and we’d love your input! To help us determine the best dates, pricing, and exciting new offerings, we’re reaching out to past participants with a quick survey: Take the Survey.
If you can share this survey with your networks, it would be a huge help in shaping an event that benefits all. Feel free to reach out with any questions—we’re looking forward to another delicious celebration!
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Join Us for "We Take Care of Us": A Virtual Town Hall
Date: Wednesday, November 20
Time: 6:00pm
Location: Zoom (Link will be posted soon)
Cost: Free – no registration required
Supervisor Lynda Hopkins invites you to a Virtual Town Hall at 6pm on Wednesday, November 20 via zoom. This event will spotlight local organizations dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA individuals, women’s reproductive health, undocumented community members, mental health services, the environment, and social safety nets. This is a unique chance to connect, learn, and find ways to support these vital causes, helping keep our community resilient, diverse, and compassionate.
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