Citrus County DMO reports positive tourism trends during reopening campaign

During the Citrus County Tourist Development Council meeting on December 11, 2024, discussions centered around strategies to boost tourism and enhance visitor engagement in the area. A key focus was on the marketing funnel, which outlines the journey potential travelers take from awareness to decision-making about their visit.

The council emphasized the importance of generating awareness, interest, and intent among potential visitors. This top-of-the-funnel approach aims to attract tourists to Citrus County, where local businesses can then engage with them to finalize their travel plans, including accommodations and activities. The collaboration between the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) and local businesses is crucial, as the DMO works to draw visitors in while businesses cater to their needs once they express interest in the area.

The meeting highlighted the success of recent marketing campaigns, particularly a reopening initiative that has shown promising results. Council members noted that while some regions in Florida are still struggling to reopen, Citrus County's efforts have positioned it favorably, with many local businesses reporting an uptick in interest for January 2025. This positive trend suggests that the community is on track for a strong start to the new year.

The council's proactive communication with local partners was also underscored, as they seek to understand the on-the-ground realities of tourism and adjust strategies accordingly. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that Citrus County remains an attractive destination for travelers, ultimately benefiting the local economy and community.