January 20, 2012 -The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism had a successful 2012 Florida Tourism Day held in Tallahassee on Wednesday, January 18, 2012.  Eleven statewide associations hosted the day and the downtown celebration to promote Florida tourism during the Legislative Session.

The 2012 Florida Tourism Day hosts included the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, VISIT FLORIDA, Florida Attractions Association, Florida Association of Destination Marketing Organizations, Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, the Florida Sports Foundation-A Division of Enterprise Florida, Florida Association of Museums, Film Florida, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, Florida Cattlemen’s Association,  and the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation.

The day began at the Doubletree with attendee registration.  The CEO’s of the hosting partners then gave brief speeches to all the attendees on the issues that are currently having an impact on the hospitality industry.  Government leadership also came to the Doubletree to reiterate the importance of the small and large businesses in the hospitality industry and the difference they make in Florida’s economy.  Those who spoke included, Governor Rick Scott, Secretary Ken Lawson, and Commissioner Adam Putnam. 

Following the morning session at the Doubletree, attendees then met with legislators at the Capitol from 1:00pm – 5:00pm to discuss issues concerning the hospitality and tourism industry.

The evening Street Festival was held on Adams Street between College and Jefferson Streets where musical group Southern Satisfaction performed live from 5:00pm – 8:00pm.  Food vendors included Fresh from Florida Seafood, Lucy & Leo’s Cupcakery, Florida Cattlemen’s Association, and Hooters.  Aside from the great music and delicious food, the Florida Cattlemen’s Association is hosted a Florida Bull-Whipping demonstration where invited legislators and Florida Tourism Day attendees tried their hand at cracking the whip.

2012 Florida Tourism Day was a huge success with nearly 300 industry participants representing 35 counties; there was a total of close to 75 legislative appointments attended.  The Street Festival had an attendance of more than 500 people.