With the change of seasons, the topics at the March 15 meeting of the Tourism Council ranged from a look back at late winter highlights to a look ahead to plans for spring and the remainder of 2019. Among the winter activities reviewed by the group: the first-ever regional Girls’ Getaway Weekend in early March and the always-popular birders event on March 2. The group discussed plans to build on the success of these initiatives in winter 2020 and beyond, part of a continuing focus on extending Cape Ann’s tourism season.

Spring is a key season for our visitor-based economy, and group reviewed plans for upcoming events that are part of our collective effort to attract visitors to Cape Ann throughout the year. Two upcoming examples are Art Week (April 26-May 5) and Kite Day in Essex on April 13.

Events like these and our focus on extending the visitor season will a central theme at the May 8 Spring 2019 Tourism Collaborative. All visitor-based businesses and community organizations are invited to join us – along with other Chamber members with an interest in this vital part of our region’s economy. There will be an opportunity for those who attend to share and hear about plans not only for spring, but for the other seasons ahead. This year’ Spring Tourism Collaborative – which will be held at Rockport Country Club – coincides with publication of the Chamber’s 2019 Cape Ann Guide and Cape Ann Map.

Plans for the Spring Tourism Collaborative will be just one of the topics at our next meeting of the Tourism Council, on April 19 at 8:30 AM at the Chamber. If you’d like to join us then and/or learn more about the Tourism Council, please contact me.

Tony Sapienza | Chair, Tourism Council | Blue Shutters Beachside Inn