The Louisiana Travel Association announced Washington Parish Tourism Commission as the recipient of the prestigious 2026 Outstanding Convention and Visitors Bureau/Tourist Commission of the Year at its Annual Meeting in Lafayette.
The Washington Parish Tourism Commission has experienced a landmark year marked by growth, innovation, and first-time achievements. 2025 has been a defining chapter in the Commission's mission to promote the parish as a place where visitors can experience authentic Louisiana culture, outdoor recreation, and the friendliest hospitality in the state - all in the "Toe of the Boot."
This year, the LTA celebrated excellence in the Louisiana tourism industry by presenting 21 "Louey Awards" to outstanding individuals and organizations. These awards honor those who have made significant contributions to promoting and enhancing Louisiana's tourism landscape.
he Louey Awards are prestigious industry awards given to individuals, organizations, events, campaigns, and destinations that have made exceptional contributions to Louisiana tourism. They highlight outstanding achievements in marketing, hospitality, event creation, advocacy, and overall enhancement of the travel experience across the state. This award was presented by Representative John Wyble and Senator Beth Mizell to the Washington Parish Tourism Commission. during the LTA Annual Meeting, a gathering of tourism professionals, destination marketing organizations, hospitality leaders, and industry stakeholders from across Louisiana.
Earning a Louey Award is a mark of distinguished performance and leadership within Louisiana's vibrant tourism community. Washington Parish Tourism was well represented and shared the TOE 'Riffic hospitality, events, people, and places of Washington Parish. Attending were Parish President Ryan Seal, Senator Beth Mizell, Representative John Wyble, Executive Director Patty Alford, Commissioners: President Cynthia August, Vice-President Ella Bickham, Secretary Kimberly Windham, Edna Kennedy, Lorraine Hall, and Krystal Peterson; Ellen Burford, the Washington Parish Tourism webpage designer.
A major milestone came when, for the first time in the Commission's history, the 3% occupancy tax was passed, with revenues beginning collection in July 2025. This historic step ensures long-term sustainability and allows the Commission to reinvest directly into local marketing, promotion, and tourism development.
This year, WPTC launched the new "Toe-Riffic Adventures Await!" campaign and brochure, distributed parish-wide and across Louisiana travel shows. The campaign featured outdoor recreation, local festivals, and cultural experiences, highlighting the parish's identity as the "Toe of the Louisiana Boot." A new tourism logo and refreshed branding reinforced a consistent visual identity across print, signage, and social media.
WPTC's social media audience grew over 200%, fueled by fresh storytelling, reels, and local features. The new "Toe-Riffic Spotlight" program showcased one business, attraction, or community story each month, strengthening local engagement and highlighting the faces behind our parish's tourism success.
The Commission also ran a national promotional campaign that helped propel the Bogue Chitto River to recognition as the #4 place to tube in the USA, as voted by USA Today.
Partnerships have been key to expanding our reach and visitor appeal. WPTC worked hand in hand with local event organizers to promote and enhance major attractions including:
o The Washington Parish Free Fair - the largest free fair in the nation
o Washington Parish Balloon Festival
o The Watermelon Festival
o The Love Roller Coaster Mountain Bike Festival
o Zona Adventure Park-NO Bar Nights and Live Music Events
o The Franklinton Christmas Parade
o The Washington Parish Fair Playground, an inclusive year-round space supported by the Commission's $5,000 donation and strong community backing
WPTC continued to innovate with several new initiatives that delivered measurable results:
o The "Toe-Riffic Spotlight" programs that promoted businesses and artisans through video storytelling, social media features, and You Tube Channel.
o A new parish-wide brochure, "Toe-Riffic Adventures Await," distributed through visitor centers, regional shows, and online requests
o A reimagined digital footprint with more responsive website features, trip-planning tools, and an expanding event calendar
o Expanded regional partnerships through the Louisiana Office of Tourism and the Louisiana Travel Association, ensuring Washington Parish was represented in broader Louisiana travel promotions
With the new occupancy tax revenue stream in place, the Commission is positioned for even greater impact, sustainability, and innovation in the years ahead.
In 2025, the Washington Parish Tourism Commission didn't just promote tourism - it redefined it. With historic funding progress, creative branding, strategic partnerships, and measurable community impact, WPTC exemplifies what a small but mighty tourism bureau can achieve. The "Toe of the Boot" continues to step boldly forward, leaving a footprint that shines across Louisiana and beyond.
The Tourism Commission is in the process of relocating. The new address is 1041 Main Street, Franklinton,. Normal weekly hours are Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8:30-3:30pm. Brochures and information can also be followed on social media or the webpage www.washingtonparishtourism.com
