Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) Chairman Gary C. Sherwin, CDME and President and CEO Don Welsh announced program details for the 2017 Annual Convention in Montreal July 11‐14.
Chris Gardner, best‐selling author and entrepreneur will deliver the Closing Keynote on July 14. Gardner’s autobiography, “The Pursuit of Happyness,” became a New York Times and Washington Post No. 1 best seller. He was the inspiration for the critically‐acclaimed movie “The Pursuit of Happyness.”
“Don and his team have curated an impressive and impactful program for the 2017 Annual Convention,” Sherwin said. “This can’t‐miss event for destination marketing and management professionals promises to educate and inspire while providing the unique opportunity to connect with and learn from peers.”
The multi‐day event kicks off on Tuesday, July 11 with the Annual Golf Classic at Golf des Iles. Attendees are invited to team up with colleagues and friends for an early tee time followed by a luncheon and an auction from which all proceeds will benefit the Destination & Travel Foundation. Foodies and history buffs will also have an opportunity to support the foundation with a four-hour culinary walking tour through old Montreal.
“The DMAI and Tourisme Montréal teams are excited to welcome everyone to Montreal for the 2017 Annual Convention,” Welsh said. “This is an exciting time for the association as we begin to implement our rebrand to Destinations International. Together with our members, Destinations International will represent powerful forward‐thinking, collaborative association; exchanging bold ideas, connecting innovative people, and excelling tourism to its highest potential. The 2017 Annual Convention is the launching pad for an exciting future."
The historic Old Port of Montreal is the site for the Opening Celebration beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11. Attendees will experience Montreal’s street festival culture along the St. Lawrence River. Food trucks, open bars and performance art will be set against a backdrop/soundtrack of jazz, blues and swing.
The Closing Reception on Thursday, July 13 will be held at New City Gas, Montreal’s premier live music destination, beginning at 8:00 p.m. Originally built in 1859, the New City Gas complex originally transformed coal into gas for lighting Montreal’s streets and buildings.
More information on DMAI’s 2017 Annual Convention is available on its website. More information on DMAI's upcoming name change to Destination International can be found in our previous news coverage.
