Sign in
The Future of a Growing Fort Worth
Visit Fort Worth showcased the $3.4 billion impact of tourism in 2023 and the more than 30,000 hospitality jobs at their 11th Annual Meeting. Held at the Fort Worth Convention Center, the event honored Dickies Arena with the annual Hospitality Award. Featured keynote Rohit Bhargava, a bestselling author and speaker, inspired the audience to think about the future in non-obvious ways.
Tourism Updates
Visit Fort Worth’s Annual Meeting presented by Pinnacle Bank included an update on the annual impact of tourism on the local economy and spotlighted the hospitality industry. President and CEO Bob Jameson highlighted the tourism industry in Fort Worth, which impacted the local economy to the tune of $3.4 billion in 2023 and drew 11.4 million visitors.
Hospitality Award
Dickies Arena was honored with Visit Fort Worth’s annual Hospitality Award. Each year the award goes to an organization that dramatically enhances the hospitality industry. The award is a sculpture commemorating the legendary Amon Carter’s tradition of extending a hat to his guests. The award was accepted by Edward P. Bass, chairman of Trail Drive Management Corp., and Matt Homan, president and general manager Trail Drive Management Corp.
Beyond Award
The Beyond Award is presented to an individual in the hospitality industry who goes above and beyond. This year’s award was presented to Maria Herrera, event coordinator at the Fort Worth Convention Center.
Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster, presented by Jockey Outdoors, announces return to Fort Worth in 2025
The 2021 event held in Fort Worth and Lake Ray Roberts attracted 147,197 fans, the second-largest crowd ever for a Bassmaster Classic and a record for a Classic held in Texas. The 2025 Bassmaster Classic will be held at Dickies Arena and the Fort Worth Convention Center.
FFA returns to Fort Worth in 2026
The Texas FFA Annual Convention and Tradeshow celebrates students’ potential for leadership. It will bring in an estimated impact of $19M into the Fort Worth economy and impact 30+ hotels across the city.
The Ultimate Fort Worth Sports Pass
Support the NCAA Readers Become Leaders program by entering a raffle for a chance to secure tickets to every major sporting event in 2024. Click here to learn more.
Unexpected Stories
Visit Fort Worth debuted a new series of 17 short films that spotlight local entrepreneurs, artists, chefs and community leaders as part of Visit Fort Worth’s promotion effort to attract tourists to the city. The one-minute video profiles and supporting content were filmed and produced by 19 Fort Worth filmmakers, displaying the robust talent and wealth of expertise in Fort Worth’s burgeoning film industry. Supporting content includes a behind-the-scenes video and series trailer. See all 17 videos at FortWorth.com/
Keynote Speaker
Keynote speaker Rohit Bhargava spoke about cutting-edge trends defining today’s culture and crafting a truthful message in a world full of noise. He encouraged the audience to uncover insights by observing and to learn to see what others miss. He emphasized “people who understand people always win.” Learn more about our 2024 keynote speaker and his message by visiting RohitBhargava.com.
Grand Finale Surprises
This year’s audience was treated to exciting surprises that stimulate the local business economy. Visit Fort Worth partnered with Dickies Apparel to offer attendees select items from their collection, which were available for sale at the after party.
Visit Fort Worth also collaborated with over 90 local partners to provide guests with special offers and discounts at businesses throughout the city. Dubbed the “Golden Ticket,” it will encourage attendees to discover, or rediscover, the unexpected charms, attractions, restaurants and shops that make Fort Worth a unique place to live.
