Posted on May 4, 2026

Experience Reading & Berks County Celebrates National Travel & Tourism Week

Experience Reading & Berks County Celebrates National Travel & Tourism Week

Championing travel’s essential role in a landmark year for America as the U.S. prepares for historic events, annual celebration.

Experience Reading & Berks County is proud to join a nationwide celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), May 3-9, recognizing the travel industry’s vital contributions to the U.S. economy.

This year’s celebration takes on special significance as the country prepares to host historic events that will put local communities on the global stage. “The World Cup is weeks away. America’s 250th birthday is right behind it. Tens of millions of visitors are coming, and the travel industry is what makes that possible. National Travel and Tourism Week is our moment to make sure every policymaker, every community leader, and every American understands what is at stake and what this industry delivers,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “The numbers speak for themselves: $3 trillion, fifteen million jobs, and a decade of global events about to arrive on our doorstep.”

Since its establishment in 1983, NTTW has showcased how travel fosters connection and builds the foundation for the quintessential American experience. This year’s theme, “Postmarked: Essential,” highlights that in every corner of the country, travel is a foundational pillar of growth, leaving an indelible mark on our local economies and culture. The industry’s economic contributions are undeniable. Travel generates $3 trillion in economic output and supports 15 million jobs, representing a significant 2.4% of America’s GDP.

Here in Berks County, the travel industry is a vital economic engine, delivering $924 million dollars in local economic impact. To mark this year’s celebration, Experience Reading & Berks County will kick off with their annual partnership meeting on Wednesday, May 6, at Redner’s Event Center. Berks County will be a host site for World Cup Fan Zone watch parties and is celebrating America 250 PA countywide.

“The energy and growth in Berks County are only made possible by our thriving travel industry,” said Heather Zimmerman, President/CEO. “Participating in National Travel and Tourism Week allows us to celebrate the businesses and individuals who make our community a competitive, world-class destination for domestic and international visitors alike for years to come.”

Visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.




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Community Testimonials

Thank you for always being receptive to my ideas. All of your efforts help me to help others and that is a blessing to me.

Adrean

Thanks for your commitment to communication far and wide, for your technical support, and tireless efforts to bring fresh programs to BCTV. Bravo!

Liz

Thank you and your staff for all you do to accommodate so many different shows, personalities, etc.!  Can’t be easy, but we really do appreciate it.

Martha

I wanted to thank you again for the opportunity you have created for our kids.  This experience is more than the TV show.  Eight students who probably never would have talked to each other were excited to execute a plan. Know that you make a difference.

Kristi

Fantastic work and thanks so much for the quick turnaround!  Always a pleasure to work with you and the rest of the BCTV team!

Jim

Wish my town had a channel like this, very cool idea to bring the community together and give people a platform.

James

I am happy and proud to be a part of such a dedicated assembly of talent and purpose. Thank you for being a part of my efforts to promote theater and the arts in this region.

David