More reasons to Visit North Carolina in 2018

Following a strong 2017 with ever-increasing Canadian arrivals, Visit North Carolina is eyeing an even bigger year ahead with a number of anniversaries and special events.

A trade mission to Toronto this week saw a delegation of North Carolina travel partners share new developments in the destination, including the Johnston County Visitor Bureau, Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority, Visit Cabarrus, Visit Raleigh and the Wilmington and Beaches CVB.

PAX caught up with Eleanor Talley, Visit North Carolina’s tourism PR manager, who detailed the past year while providing a look ahead for the destination. In 2017, North Carolina became the ninth most-visited state in the U.S. by Canadians, a milestone achievement for the destination, Talley said.

“2017 was a big year for us!” Talley told PAX. “It’s a huge deal to move up to the top 10 - we’re very excited!”

The coming year will see a number of unique tourism draws, including the following:

• 2018 marks the 300th anniversary of the death of Blackbeard, the notorious pirate who pillaged the shores of North Carolina in the early 1700s. The state will host a number of events and festivals commemorating the anniversary.
• The Tryon International equestrian Center will host the FEI World Equestrian Games from Sept. 10-23. The premier event in the equestrian world will welcome guests from around the world to the brand-new facility.
• The Biltmore Estate will host a number of special events in 2018, including Glamour on Board: Fashion from Titanic the Movie running until May 13, followed by an exhibition of works by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Visit www.visitnc.com for more information.