Special Events

Monday, October 22, 2007

Opening Evening Event 
Welcome to Charlotte NASCAR STYLE!

Sponsored by:  TripAdvisor

Contributors: Visit Charlotte, North Carolina Division of Tourism, Film & Sports Development, Lowe's Motor Seedway, Charlotte Arrangements, The Speedway Club, Jeff Gordon Racing School, Thunderdome Racing Entertainment & Attractions, and America Charters.

Start Your Engines!  Fasten your seatbelts for the ride of your life at Lowe's Motor Speedway, the 1.5 mile Superspeedway, home of the NASCAR Nextel All-Star Challenge, Coca Cola 600 and Bank of America 500. Ten lucky delegates will win a "ride-along" with a professional driver.  Not up for speeding down the track at 170 miles per hour? Maybe a remote control race is more your speed or simply a good old fashioned BBQ. Whatever your fancy, this event is one not to be missed! Buses leave the hotel promptly at 4:30 PM.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Travel Industry Association
&
National Geographic Traveler

Odyssey Awards Gala Dinner and Reception

TIA and National Geographic Traveler, in their second year of partnership, are proud to present the Odyssey Awards.  Recognizing the highest achievements globally in travel and tourism, the Odyssey Awards celebrate the best and the most effective programs offered by the world's largest industry. In addition, TIA's 2007 Hall of Leaders award recipient, Stephen P. Holmes, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wyndham Worldwide, will officially be inducted on this special evening.   Distinguished individuals are named to the Hall of Leaders maintained by the Travel Industry Association (TIA) for "sustained, noteworthy contributions that have positively impacted the travel industry, stimulated greater achievement, and raised industry-wide standards." Join us as we celebrate excellence within the industry.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007 (1:00- 2:00 pm)

Fast Tracks

Explore trends and get answers to your questions from industry thought leaders at informational round table discussions on topics pertinent to your company's marketing efforts.  Two sets of 30 minute concurrent sessions sponsored by some of the leading research, marketing and eBusiness companies.  Click here to view this year's thought leaders. 
 

  For more information contact Sarah Dickson at 202-408-2134

Wednesday, October 24, 2007 (1:00 pm - 2:00 pm)

TIA's Research Update

Receive the latest information on TIA's cutting-edge research. Be the first to learn about new projects, reports, and partnerships that explore topics pertinent to the industry. You may be surprised at the wealth of research that TIA provides. Use this opportunity also to provide important feedback to the TIA Research Team on industry needs.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Experience Charlotte's Flavor!

Boasting an eclectic array of dining and nightlife, Charlotte's unique entertainment and feasting options create a real sense of character.  Named one of the "Top 50 Cities That Sizzle," Charlotte offers a wide array of dining options, including local flavor, international cuisine and upscale dining.  Step out on the town to enjoy a relaxing meal or into music venues and dance clubs, wine and martini bars, coffeehouses and more.  Don't know where to begin?  Let the pros at Visit Charlotte assist in your dine-around planning. 

Thursday, October 25, 2007 (8:30 am - 12 Noon)

Strategic Professional Development Sessions

In addition to the two full days of programming, we have added an additional half-day of strategic professional development sessions, free to Marketing Outlook Forum delegates.  Join Mark Haskell, Vice President  of Forecasting and Lori Georganna, Vice President of Research of the renowned Walt Disney Parks and Resorts research team for practical and actionable sessions on "Identifying and Using Key Business Drivers" and "Disney Research Methods". Please click here for more information on these sessions.