2025 ANNUAL REPORT
A Letter From the President & CEO
Dear Industry Partners & Community Stakeholders:
As we reflect on 2025, we are filled with pride and gratitude for another remarkable year for Jefferson Parish tourism. This year was especially meaningful as we joined communities throughout the parish in celebrating our Bicentennial, honoring 200 years of rich culture, heritage, resilience, and community spirit. Together, we celebrated the people, traditions, and unique experiences that make Jefferson Parish an extraordinary place to live, work, and visit.
The year began at an exciting pace as we showcased our destination during Super Bowl LIX festivities and Mardi Gras celebrations. These high-profile events provided tremendous opportunities to share the Jefferson Parish story with visitors from across the nation and around the world.
Our dedicated team continues to promote and market Jefferson Parish to meeting & reunion planners, tour operators, sports organizers, and leisure travelers. In 2025, our Sales Team experienced tremendous success, generating an estimated $42 million in economic impact through group sales. This achievement would not have been possible without the strong partnerships we share with our convention facilities, sports venues, and hotels. Their collaboration and commitment help us meet the needs of our clients and create exceptional experiences for their attendees.
Culinary and outdoor experiences remained top priorities for travelers in 2025, and Jefferson Parish was wellpositioned to meet that demand. Our "In to Be Out" marketing campaign earned the Louisiana Travel Association Louie Award for Marketing Campaign of the Year, recognizing a creative and engaging initiative that invites visitors to discover all the ways they can be "in" when stepping "out" in Jefferson Parish, whether enjoying our natural beauty, exploring outdoor recreation, or dining at our outstanding restaurants.
We also continued our partnerships with social media influencers and travel writers, expanding awareness of the destination among key target audiences. The Jefferson Parish Louisiana Oyster Trail, sponsored by Louisiana Hot Sauce, generated significant interest, while the adventures found along our bayous, waterways, parks, and outdoor amenities continued to resonate with visitors seeking authentic Louisiana experiences.
An exciting milestone in 2025 was the debut of the Visit Jefferson Parish Mobile Visitors Van, which took its inaugural ride during the Mardi Gras season. Serving as both a mobile advertisement and ambassador for our destination, the van helps bring the Jefferson Parish story directly to residents and visitors at events throughout the parish. We look forward to seeing it continue to engage audiences and inspire exploration in the years ahead. Finally, we extend our sincere appreciation to our Community Champion Program sponsors, LCMC Health and BMW, for their continued support and commitment in 2025. Their partnership strengthens collaboration within the hospitality industry while increasing awareness of tourism's significant impact on our local economy and quality of life. Through their support, we were able to enhance special events and create memorable experiences for both residents and visitors alike.
Thank you for your dedication to making Jefferson Parish a premier destination. Your commitment to excellence helps ensure that every visitor enjoys a welcoming and unforgettable experience. Together, we are building on our successes and creating an even brighter future for tourism in Jefferson Parish.
With gratitude, Violet
Peters, CDME President & CEO
Visit Jefferson Parish
Thank you to the 2025 Board of Directors
OFFICERS
GENE SAUSSE - CHAIRMAN
Vice President & General Manager | New Orleans
Television
KEVIN BARONI - VICE-CHAIRMAN
General Manager | Pontchartrain Convention and Civic Center
SHANNON DALLAS - TREASURER
Director of Business Development | Hotard Coaches, Inc.
JOSEPH SPINATO - SECRETARY
President | Spinato Management
CHARLENE MARTINEZ - IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
General Manager | Hampton Inn & Suites
New Orleans - Elmwood
STU BARASH - MEMBER-AT-LARGE
President | Destination Marketing Consultants
TODD LOUP - MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Director of Sales | DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans Airport
VIOLET PETERS - PRESIDENT & CEO
Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc.
DIRECTORS
BRETT BARES
Director of Sales & Marketing | Airboat Adventures LLC
DAVID BARRECA
Owner | Barreca's Food Services, LLC
KRISTINA BENNETT-HOLMES
Deputy Director of Aviation-Commercial Development | New Orleans International Airport
BRET CHITTENDEN
Chief Operating Officer | Expotel Hospitality
RYAN FAVRET
General Manager | Alario Center
TARA LEDOUX
CEO | Clearview City Center
DARREN MARTINO
Division On Premise Sales Manager | Crescent City Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED
BROOKE ZAR
Owner/Operator | Restaurant des Familles
COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVES
DONNA RUSSO
Director | Jefferson Parish Citizens' Affairs
OUR MISSION
The mission of Visit Jefferson Parish is to actively partner with the tourism and hospitality industry by marketing and selling the destination brand experience, resulting in additional spending by leisure and group travel visitors, leading to enhanced community, economic vitality, and resident quality of place.
OUR VISION
As a brand-driven destination leader, Visit Jefferson Parish is innovative and influential in attracting new visitor business to the parish tourism/hospitality industry and host communities.
OUR PROMISE
Jefferson Parish, with its key gateways of Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and Interstate 10, offers unique and affordable family-oriented dining and shopping, as well as immersive nature-based recreational and group event experiences. Comprised of the Mississippi East and West Banks and the Gulf Coast, the area showcases lively suburban business districts and historic neighborhood communities, espousing a distinct character of friendliness, fun and relaxation. Jefferson Parish is assuredly the real connection to the Louisiana family entertainment lifestyle.
ACCREDITED
Visit Jefferson Parish is accredited through the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) by Destinations International. This esteemed global recognition signifies Visit Jefferson Parish meets the performance standards in destination marketing and management. We are committed to upholding these standards and to being effective leaders in our industry.
Jefferson Tourism by the Numbers
Jefferson Parish continues to shine as a premier tourism destination, driven by a vibrant visitor economy valued at nearly $2 billion and supporting approximately 21,000 hospitality jobs. The parish proudly ranks second statewide in visitor spending, employment earnings, and tourism-generated revenue.
The latest visitor spending report from the Louisiana Office of Tourism from 2024 indicated that visitors contributed an impressive $2 billion to the local economy, supporting 20,780 hospitality jobs and generating more than $650 million in wages. Tourism also delivered nearly $209 million in state and local tax revenue providing a meaningful impact for residents, with an estimated savings of over $1,228 in state sales tax per household.
JEFFERSON PARISH BENEFITS FROM A
$2 BILLION VISITOR INDUSTRY
2 nd
>$1,228 IN STATE SALES TAX SAVED BY EVERY HOUSEHOLD IN JEFFERSON PARISH
JEFFERSON PARISH VISITOR INDUSTRY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR NEARLY 21,000 JOBS
LARGEST VISITOR SPENDING IN THE STATE
DESTINATION DEVELOPMENT
2025 ushered in exciting new and reimagined attractions and experiences:
• Westwego launched Gator Town U.S.A.! This newly recognized area, south of Westbank Expressway, West of Laroussini Street, and East of Louisiana Street, is home to swamp tours, fresh seafood, and cajun dining.
• John Alario Jr. Sports Complex phase one was completed with 4 multipurpose fields, adding the ability to convert to 8 baseball fields.
• Wyndham New Orleans Airport & Conference Center underwent a full renovation.
• Hilton New Orleans Airport Hotel completed renovations of all meeting rooms/ballrooms.
• Clarion Hotel converted to a co-branded property, Wyndham and Tryp.
• Lafreniere Park opened Tripp’s Treehouse, an accessible playground for all ages/abilities. The Pointe Food Pavilion, a $3 million open-air dining pavilion opened late fall.
• Grand Isle Jewels, the new brand for Grand Isle off-bottom oysters, launched their campaign helping revive this industry and elevate local farmers.
• Jefferson Parish’s Mike Miley Playground opened a $2-million pickleball complex, the largest public complex in the region.
• Jefferson Parish’s Parc des Families Disc Golf Course was renovated in preparation for the 2026 Disc Golf Pro Tour.
• NOLA Motorsports Park added mini-golf and an arcade to their entertainment venue.
2025 DESTINATION INFLUENCES
• Bayou Jeep Bash
• Disabled American Veterans
• DR Sportz 7 on 7 Football
• Elite Redfish Series
• Family Gras
• First Robotics
• Gator Classic Soccer Tournament
• Grand Isle International Tarpon Rodeo
• Gretna Heritage Festival
• Lafitte Seafood Festival
• LHSAA Powerlifting State Championships
FESTIVALS & EVENTS
• Mardi Gras
• Mardi Gras 5K/10K
• Music City Championship-Jazz Addition
• New Orleans Champions Cup Soccer Tournament
• New Orleans Power Boat Grand Prix
• Powerlifting America
• Super Bowl LVIII
• Tour de Jefferson
• Uncle Sam Jam
• USA Dodgeball National Championship
• Zurich Classic
Jefferson Parish’s dynamic festival scene continues to be a powerful driver of tourism and economic growth. Signature events like Family Gras brings families together to celebrate Mardi Gras, music, and local culture, while the Visit Jefferson Parish team provides key operational support for fan-favorite events such as Uncle Sam Jam and Tour de Jefferson .
In addition, beloved festivals including the Gretna Heritage Festival, Lafitte Seafood Festival, Bridge City Gumbo Festival, and the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo, along with many other celebrations across the parish, draw visitors from near and far. These events generate significant economic impact by bringing new dollars into the community, supporting local hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and small businesses.
The increased visitor spending not only fuels the local economy but also drives critical tax revenue through sales, lodging, and other collections, helping to strengthen and sustain the community and its quality of life.
Destination Sales & Services
Visit Jefferson Parish proudly represented its partners and the destination at key industry tradeshows and conferences, participating in 11 group and leisure events and securing more than 254 one‑on‑one appointments with event and travel planners. In 2025, the sales team delivered impressive results, booking 27,593 room nights and generating an estimated $42 million in economic impact!
To further amplify the destination’s reach, Visit Jefferson Parish executed a targeted print and digital marketing campaign, with a strategic focus on high-performing sports and military markets. Campaign placements appeared in more than a dozen respected outlets, including the Sports Events Annual Planners Guide, Sports Destination Guide, Convention South, Meetings Today, Small Market Meetings, as well as publications and guides affiliated with the Military Reunion Network and the Disabled American Veterans Annual Conference.
6,654
DEFINITE ROOM NIGHTS
27,593
TOTAL LEADS GENERATED
231
90
CLIENT SITE TOURS
50 GROUPS WELCOMED
• Rendezvous South CLIENT COMMUNICATIONS
ASSOCIATION/CORPORATE: • Small Market Meetings
SOCIAL, MILITARY, EDUCATION, RELIGIOUS, FRATERNAL:
• Military Reunion Network
• New Orleans Bridal
• Student Youth Travel Association
SPORTS:
• International Association of Golf Tour Operators
• Sports ETA
• SPORTS Relationship Conference • TEAMS
TOUR & TRAVEL: • American Bus Association
• IPW
2025 HIGHLIGHTS
New Orleans hosting the 2025 Super Bowl meant big business for the Jefferson Parish tourism industry. We saw occupancy rates average 90% over the peak nights with an ADR of $532. Additionally, Visit Jefferson Parish worked with TSA, Centerplate, and New Orleans Tours to provide hotel accommodations within Jefferson Parish.
FEBRUARY League Joe Softball Tournament - 1,000 attendees / 150 room nights
Powerlifting America Bench Nationals - 1,000 attendees / 250 room nights
MARCH Bayou Jeep Bash - 1,600 attendees / 400 room nights
Big Easy Invitational Soccer - 5,700 attendees / 300 room nights
LHSAA Powerlifting State Championship - 13,200 attendees / 2,000 room nights
Music City Championships - 350 room nights
APRIL First Robotics - 3,400 attendees / 790 room nights
Louisiana Bridge Association Regional Championship - 200 attendees / 190 room nights
MAY Disabled American Veterans - 300 Attendees / 320 Room Nights
JUNE P1 Powerboat New Orleans Grand Prix - 10,300 attendees / 530 room nights
JULY South Senate Bowling Tournament - 250 attendees / 300 room nights
AUGUST USA Dodgeball National Championship - 350 attendees / 300 room nights
SEPTEMBER Gator Classic Soccer - 7,500 Attendees / 300 Room Nights
NOVEMBER New Orleans Champions Cup Soccer - 5,600 attendees
USA Raquetball Regional - 250 attendees / 100 room nights
DECEMBER World Foosball Tour State Tournament - 200 attendees / 170 room nights
FAMILIARIZATION (FAM) TOURS
Visit Jefferson Parish hosted a group of military reunion planners from the Army Division Association (ADA), showcasing the many experiences and opportunities available throughout Jefferson Parish. We also welcomed the Louisiana Office of Tourism Golf FAM tour, highlighting our premier local golf courses for golf tour operators. Through firsthand experiences at our hotels, restaurants, and attractions, planners gained valuable insight into the exceptional amenities and hospitality Jefferson Parish can offer their attendees.
Visit Jefferson Parish successfully secured future events through strong execution of past programming and the development of strategic partnerships with local organizations.
Jefferson Parish is a premier destination for mid-sized tournaments and events, offering a diverse range of venues that accommodate a variety of sports. To support event planners, Visit Jefferson Parish provides a comprehensive online Sports Venue Guide, promoted through digital channels, industry conferences, and site visits to ensure planners have the resources they need.
FUTURE EVENTS:
LHSAA POWERLIFTING STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
2,500 room nights (March 2026)
BAYOU JEEP BASH
400 room nights (March 2026)
DISC GOLF PRO TOUR BIG EASY
400 room nights (March 2026)
USA POWERLIFTING COLLEGIATE NATIONALS
1,250 room nights (April 2026)
FIRST ROBOTICS
800 room nights (April 2026)
LOUISIANA DIAMOND YOUTH BASEBALL
STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
300 room nights (July 2026)
LOUISIANA DIAMOND YOUTH SOFTBALL
STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
300 room nights (July 2026)
LOUISIANA FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
500 room nights (July 2026)
TOP GUN THE MAIN EVENT
1,250 room nights (November 2026)
Jefferson
Marketing the Destination
ALIGNING GRANT FUNDING WITH MARKETING OBJECTIVES
The Louisiana Tourism Revival Fund (LTRF) grant enabled Visit Jefferson Parish to expand its 2025 advertising efforts, increasing our reach and allowing us to better target key visitor demographics. In addition, the Louisiana Office of Tourism’s Cooperative Marketing Program (CMP) provided a 50% match on eligible marketing opportunities, maximizing the impact of our advertising investments.
JEFFERSON PARISH'S BICENTENNIAL
2025 was marked by the excitement of celebrating Jefferson Parish’s Bicentennial. Visitors and residents alike took part in the festivities through special bicentennial promotions and discounts. Furthering the excitement, the parish enthusiastically welcomed fans attending Super Bowl events. The celebration continued with Mardi Gras, spring festival season, summer outdoor adventures, fall and holiday events creating a vibrant atmosphere that showcased the community’s culture, hospitality, and unique appeal as a destination.
LEISURE MARKETING
Visit Jefferson Parish drives visitation through a comprehensive, multi-channel marketing strategy that includes print, digital, broadcast, search engine optimization, social media, influencer partnerships, cooperative marketing, tradeshows, sales missions, and familiarization (FAM) tours.
In 2025, digital, broadcast, and social advertising efforts generated more than 16 million impressions! Expanded in-market outreach through geo-fencing garnered 2,025,094 impressions with 4,677 clicks and targeted display campaigns delivered an additional 1.8 million impressions with nearly 400,000 clicks. Visibility was further enhanced through in-room broadcast television via Destination Network’s NOTV, where the Outdoor Family Fun commercial aired 6,163 times across 23,972 hotel rooms in the metro area. Broadcast marketing, both nationally and locally, generated 982,493 impressions through 1,037 radio and television spots. Additionally, a national YouTube campaign featuring the In to Be Outdoors :30 commercial delivered 586,770 impressions, and 324,872 views.
THE LOUEY AWARDS
Visit Jefferson Parish was honored to be recognized by the Louisiana Travel Association with the 2025 Louey Award for Marketing Campaign of the Year, acknowledging the impact and creativity of its “In to be Out” campaign.
CAMPAIGN OVERVIEW
In a region where New Orleans commands global attention, the Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau launched a bold, identity-shifting campaign that invited travelers to look just beyond the spotlight. Titled “IN TO BE OUT,” this initiative redefined what it means to be part of the “in” crowd—flipping the narrative to celebrate outdoor adventure, insider access, and authentic Louisiana experiences in Jefferson Parish. The campaign’s central message was clear: You don’t have to be in the city to be in the know. Whether visitors were zipping through the marsh on a high-speed airboat, savoring first-class dining, or meandering the swamp on a nature tour, Jefferson Parish offered a sense of belonging that felt personal, immersive, and refreshingly real.
MOBILE VISITORS VAN
The Visit Jefferson Parish mobile visitors van made its debut during the 2025 Mardi Gras season. Serving as both a moving billboard and a mobile ambassador for the destination, the van attends tourism events including Mardi Gras parades, sports tournaments, and festivals throughout the year. Stocked with visitor information and destination brochures, it promotes Jefferson Parish’s attractions, restaurants, museums, shopping, outdoor recreation, and other unique experiences, helping inspire visitors to explore all the parish has to offer.
LEISURE TRADESHOWS & CONFERENCES
• IPW
• Louisiana Office of Tourism's Super Bowl Louisiana Cultural Fest Activation
• Louisiana Travel Association Lt. Governor's Travel Summit
MARKETING PARTNERSHIPS
• Bayou Nation
• Beyond Business
• Destination Signals
• Elite Fishing Series
• Krewe of Argus
• Louisiana Charter Boat Association
• Louisiana Culinary Trails
• Louisiana Office of Tourism (LOT)
• TEAM Louisiana
• Tulane Sports
• NOTV, Destination Network
JEFFERSON PARISH VISITORS GUIDE
The Visit Jefferson Parish Visitors Guide serves as an annual inspiration piece, showcasing the destination’s vibrant culture, signature events, and valued partners. Designed as a lifestyle magazine, it features compelling stories from travel writers that invite visitors to experience the destination.
As the primary response tool for prospective visitors, the guide plays a key role in trip planning and destination awareness. With a print distribution of 35,000 copies , complemented by more than 50,000 rack cards , it reaches audiences through Louisiana Welcome Centers, hotels throughout Jefferson and Orleans parishes , and at conferences and ensuring Jefferson Parish remains top of mind for travelers.
NATJA SILVER AWARD
2025-26 Visit Jefferson Parish Visitors Guide Article: The Life Aquatic by Author Crai S. Bower
JEFFERSON PARISH LOUISIANA OYSTER TRAIL
The Louisiana Oyster Trail celebrates the parish’s rich oyster culture through a collection of unique culinary experiences, each marked by a striking, three-foot-tall oyster sculpture hand-painted by a local artist. In 2025, the trail was elevated through a sponsorship with Louisiana Hot Sauce, enhancing marketing efforts and encouraging both locals and visitors to enjoy ‘Louisiana Hot’ and to go ‘Bayou Some!’ Stretching from the shores of Grand Isle to the banks of the Mississippi River and along Lake Pontchartrain, the trail offers a flavorful journey across Jefferson Parish. Visitors can explore each stop through the dedicated website, LouisianaOysterTrail.com, which features an interactive map, a full list of participating restaurants, and artist spotlights showcasing the vibrant sculptures along the way.
Follow the Oyster Shell Road
In partnership with the Louisiana Charter Boat Association (LCBA), Visit Jefferson Parish highlighted Lafitte in a two-part Catch & Cook series featuring Chef Jay Ducote and guest Chef Brian Duffy, known for his work on the TV show Bar Rescue.
2025 STREAMING VIEWERSHIP
MOSSY OAK GO 4,834 views
MOSSY OAK YOUTUBE 721,504 views
WAYPOINT TV 966,258 views
TOTAL VIEWS 399,895 views
SUNDAY EVENINGS ON THE BAYOU
:15 SECOND PROMO ~1,885,000 impressions :30 SECOND PROMO ~565,000 impressions
BUMPERS ~819,000 impressions
INTRO ~63,000 impressions
BANNERS ~25,000 impressions
TOTAL IMPRESSIONS ~3,357,000 impressions
S NO-BAL L BLIT
RHYTHM ON THE ROUTE
This annual initiative enables Mardi Gras krewes in the district of Metairie to entice local, regional, and out-of-state marching bands to participate in their parade by incentivizing the bands with a Battle of the Bands contest. In 2025 the program had 46 bands participating.
KING CAKE CAPITAL
In 2025, Jefferson Parish earned recognition as the King Cake Capital of the World, thanks to its unparalleled concentration of king cake bakeries. Home to more than 35 bakeries crafting both traditional and innovative king cakes, the parish has become a premier Carnival destination for visitors seeking this iconic Louisiana treat.
SNO-BALL BLITZ!
Patrons were encouraged to visit all participating stands and to vote for their favorite. Droopy's Snowballs was bestowed the honor of 'Best in Sno'!
FOODIE FEAST
A celebration of our diverse culture and cuisine. Restaurants participated with special menus and/or discounts enticing patrons to feast! With 54 participants, we saw a 184.2% increase over 2024 and look ahead to 2026!
TASTE OF THE TRAIL
Taste of the Louisiana Oyster Trail was a month-long celebration of Louisiana’s oyster culture, featuring a restaurant check-in challenge showcasing the journey of oysters from harvest to plate!
JEFFERSON PARISH BICENTENNIAL PASSPORT
Jefferson Parish Passport is a free, mobile-friendly pass launched in 2025 by the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) in partnership with Visit Jefferson Parish to celebrate the parish’s 200th anniversary. The passport was designed to encourage residents and visitors to spend locally and experience the wide range of businesses, restaurants, attractions, and retailers in Jefferson Parish.
Social Media
Digital and social media marketing played a key role in increasing brand awareness and showcasing the destination across a wide range of digital platforms.
Family Gras
Louisiana Oyster Trail
Visit Jefferson Parish
#VisitJeffersonParish
@VisitJeffersonParish
#VisitJeffersonParish
X
@FamilyGras
@JeffersonLaFun
#VisitJeffersonParish
@VisitJeffersonParish
YOUTUBE
335,622 views
2,819.5 impressions
179 subscribers
SOCIAL AT A GLANCE
48,418 Facebook Followers
3,648,826 Total Impressions
2,660 X Followers
3,533 Total Impressions
5,166 Instagram Followers 234,663 Total Impressions
FEATURED PROMOTIONS
Visit Jefferson Parish promoted destination events and visitor-focused initiatives through social media and digital marketing channels to increase awareness, generate interest, and highlight the parish’s unique attractions.
King Cake Capital
338 views
1,535 event count 0:31
Foodie Feast
12,112 views
54,538 event count 2:20
Snoball Blitz
5633 total votes
78,845 views
231,237 event count 0:10
Tour de Jefferson
3,469 views
17,740 events 1:05
Taste of the Trail
269 views 2,152 events 1:00
Superbowl 1,170 views 6,221 events 0:51
Bicentennial 364 views 1,821 events 0:44
Facebook Family Gras Contest
622 votes
15,710 views
195 reactions
36 shares
Family Gras Survey Post
5,689 views
30 reactions
4 shares
50 link clicks
Family Gras Survey Email
25,699 sends
9,139 (40%) open 456 (2%) clicks
Influencers
To expand its reach, strengthen brand awareness, and foster deeper connections with target audiences, Visit Jefferson Parish launched strategic partnerships with social media influencers. Through authentic storytelling and engaging content, these influencers amplified the destination’s visibility, increased audience engagement, and became an important part of the organization’s long - term marketing strategy.
TOP 2025 INFLUENCERS POSTS
VISIT JEFFERSON PARISH INFLUENCER COLLABORATIONS
Visit Jefferson Parish collaborated with social influencers to create and share engaging content across their digital platforms, showcasing the parish's diverse culinary experiences, outdoor adventures, vibrant festivals, and authentic travel destinations. Thus expanding destination awareness and inspiring travelers to explore the unique attractions and local culture throughout Jefferson Parish.
COLLABORATING INFLUENCERS & THEIR SOCIAL REACH
OYSTER TRAIL SERIES WITH CHEF SEAN "POOCH" RIVERA
Sean “Pooch” Rivera is an award-winning restaurateur, chef, and pit master who partnered with Visit Jefferson Parish to highlight the Louisiana Oyster Trail through a series of social media reels and short-form interviews. Trail participants of the series include: Acme Oyster House Metairie, Deanie's Bucktown, Harbor Seafood Restaurant, Red Maple Restaurant, Segnette Landing Restaurant, The Galley, and Restaurant des Familles.
In 2025, we launched the new Tempest iDSS website, complementing the implementation of the iDSS Cyclone Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform introduced in Q4 of 2024. Designed specifically for the travel and tourism industry, this unified, cloud-based system enables us to efficiently manage sales, marketing, membership, and event operations from a single platform.
The website is fully integrated with the CRM, providing seamless synchronization of member listings, event calendars, itineraries, content modules, media assets, forms, and AI-powered search capabilities. The platform also delivers enhanced visual storytelling, improved user experiences, and robust Member Extranet functionality, allowing partners to easily manage and update their information while ensuring accurate, upto-date content across all digital channels.
352,508 Active Users 347,814 new users
699,806 Page Views to Website
453,347 sessions and 3,346,715 event counts/user interactions
0.98s Average Session Per Active User 0:50s Average engagement time per active user
VISIT JEFFERSON PARISH APP
Visit Jefferson Parish App features a destination map, itinerary builder, calendar of events, accommodations, and more!
1,051 Downloads
28,511 Page Views
18,442 Sessions
7,624 Users
JEFFERSON PARISH INSIDER BLOG
22,739 Total Page Views
Top 3 Posts
"Holiday events in Jefferson Parish"
2,719 page views
"Tips for riding in a Mardi Gras parade"
1,483 page views
"Halloween events in Jefferson Parish"
1,387 page views
PR & Media Marketing
Collaborating with travel writers, journalists, and bloggers is a powerful way to showcase Jefferson Parish’s culture, attractions, and unique experiences through authentic storytelling. Through these voices, the destination comes to life, shared through firsthand experiences that resonate with travelers.
Visit Jefferson Parish maintains consistent outreach through travel industry associations, media conferences, tradeshows, and strategic media partnerships. Ongoing collaboration with organizations such as the Louisiana Office of Tourism (LOT), North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), and Travel Bloggers Exchange (TBEX) provides year -round opportunities to pitch story ideas and introduce the destination to travel writers, journalists, and influencers.
To measure and amplify these efforts, Visit Jefferson Parish utilizes Meltwater, a leading media monitoring platform that delivers comprehensive analysis across online news, social media, print, broadcast, and podcasts—ensuring broad visibility and measurable impact.
TRAVEL MEDIA-ORIENTED MEMBERSHIPS
Membership in travel media-oriented associations is an important factor in marketing to media of specific or niche markets.
Attendance at key media and public relations conferences further strengthens these efforts, allowing the team to build meaningful relationships with travel journalists and industry professionals while staying ahead of evolving media and travel trends. This proactive approach fosters valuable connections, generates positive media coverage, and positions Jefferson Parish for ongoing storytelling opportunities in an ever -changing travel landscape.
TRAVEL MEDIA CONFERENCES
• Travel Bloggers Exchange (TBEX)
• Travel South Media Marketplace
• North American Travel Journalist Association (NATJA)
• Southern Travelers Explore Conference
MEDIA FAMILIARIZATION (FAM) TOURS
Visit Jefferson Parish welcomed travel writer Amy Eastin and her family for an immersive look at family -friendly experiences across the destination. Their visit included fishing paired with a “catch- and -cook” lunch, a swamp tour in Lafitte, exploration of local parks, visits to Rivertown’s museums, high- speed fun at NOLA Motorsports Park, and indoor entertainment at Game On Social Hub.
During the summer, we hosted travel writer Crai Bower to develop a feature for the annual Visitors Guide highlighting Jefferson Parish’s unique connection to its surrounding waterways, from lake and river to bayou. Showcasing everything from airboat adventures and disc golf to dining and outdoor recreation, the article earned a North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA) Silver Award in destination travel for “The Life Aquatic.”
Additionally, freelance writer Jackie Foeber explored the parish’s vibrant culinary scene for the Visitors Guide, focusing on the destination’s proximity to water and the essential role fresh seafood plays in shaping Jefferson Parish’s distinctive food culture.
Achievements
VISIT JEFFERSON PARISH 25 TH ANNIVERSARY
2025 marked a milestone year for Visit Jefferson Parish as we proudly celebrated 25 years of fostering partnerships and championing the hospitality industry. This achievement reflects the dedication, collaboration, and shared vision of our hospitality partners, elected officials, and business leaders, all of whom recognize tourism’s lasting impact on the local economy. Together, their commitment and support have helped shape Jefferson Parish into a premier destination, welcoming visitors and contributing to the community’s continued growth and success.
LTA LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Faye Broussard Dauzat, Digital Marketing & Social Content Manager , graduated from the Louisiana Travel Association Leadership Academy . Through six class sessions and a group project, the program focused on leadership, productivity, vision, networking, and an understanding of statewide issues.
LOUISIANA SPIRIT AWARD
Visit Jefferson Parish President & CEO, Violet Peters, CDME , was honored as the recipient of the 2025 Louisiana Spirit Award by the Louisiana Travel Association recognizing a tourism professional who embodies the spirit of Louisiana through service, leadership, influence, and a steadfast commitment to the industry and community.
VIRGIE OTT TOURISM AWARD
The 2025 Virgie Ott Tourism Award was presented to Gene Sausse, Vice President & General Manager, New Orleans Television for his outstanding leadership and enthusiastic dedication to the Jefferson Parish hospitality industry.
CHEFS TO WATCH AWARD
Louisiana Cookin’ Magazine’s 2025 Chefs to Watch honors rising culinary talent across the Bayou State who honor Louisiana’s rich food traditions while bringing bold, fresh ideas to the table. Visit Jefferson Parish’s own Chef Peter Nyugen of Bahn Mi Boys was featured.
Violet Peters, VJP President & CEO (center) with Stacy Brown, CEO, Visit Shreveport-Bossier & LTA Past Chair, Chris Landry, President, LTA
Faye Broussard-Dauzat and Laine Garner, VP of Sales, Membership & Education, LTA
Gene Sausse pictured with Violet Peters, VJP President & CEO
Chef Peter Nyugen
Member Partnerships
With more than 260 members, acquiring 34 new members in 2025, Visit Jefferson Parish is proud to serve as a dedicated partner in advancing tourism across the destination. We support and represent our partners year -round through strategic promotion, marketing initiatives, and meaningful educational and professional development opportunities.
In 2025 we fully integrated our membership into the Tempest iDSS (Cyclone) Customer Relations Management (CRM) system . A cloud-based CRM and destination management platform designed specifically for Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) in the travel and tourism industry. Key elements include efficiency, streamlining sales, marketing, and operations; engagement, centralizing client and member/partner data for better relationship management, and growth, data-driven insights and tools to expand reach and economic impact. Partners were trained on the features and functionality of the program.
To better understand and respond to partner needs, a biannual membership and stakeholder survey is conducted. This valuable tool provides insight into the effectiveness of current initiatives, identifies opportunities for growth, and helps shape advocacy efforts and member benefits to better serve our stakeholders.
Partner engagement is a cornerstone of a strong and unified tourism industry. Visit Jefferson Parish fosters regular networking and meeting opportunities that allow members to connect, exchange ideas, and stay informed on industry trends and data insights.
The Annual Membership Meeting, held in October at the DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans Airport, brought partners together for a comprehensive update on the state of tourism in Jefferson Parish. Attendees heard from industry leaders, including Laine Garner, Vice President of Sales, Membership & Education for the Louisiana Travel Association, and Maggie Heller, Account Director with Miles Media, who shared key insights into 2026 travel trends. The meeting also included the election of the 2026 Board of Directors and the presentation of the prestigious Virgie Ott Tourism Award to recipient Gene Sausse, Vice President & General Manager, New Orleans Television.
Visit Jefferson Parish partnered with New Orleans & Company to organize a job fair in September, bringing together industry employers and job seekers from across the region. The event provided employers with access to qualified candidates and connected job seekers with career opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and related industries.
We attended the PACE Forum Conference, the premier annual gathering for DMO's, the conference is built around the idea that engagement is essential to achieving sustainability, and economic growth in tourism. We garnered valuable insight into emerging industry trends, successful case studies, and practical solutions. The networking opportunities and peer-to-peer learning strengthened professional relationships, and fostered new partnerships.
MEMBER/STAKEHOLDER PROMISE
We pledge to facilitate business opportunities to members and partners through increased visitor exposure, advocacy & education
Advocacy & Community
Visit Jefferson Parish serves as the official destination marketing organization for Jefferson Parish, promoting the destination for leisure travel, meetings and conventions, sporting events, and as an exceptional place to live, work, and do business. As a trusted liaison for meeting planners, tour operators, travel writers, journalists, and member partners, we actively support and advocate for the parish’s thriving hospitality industry.
Tourism remains a vital pillar of the local economy, generating nearly $2 billion in visitor spending and supporting more than 21,000 hospitality jobs. Visit Jefferson Parish remains committed to sustaining and growing this economic impact for the benefit of the entire community.
During National Travel & Tourism Week, we proudly celebrated our hospitality workforce and industry partners, highlighting the significant value and economic contributions tourism brings both locally and nationwide. The celebration brought partners together for a day of appreciation and connection, featuring a crawfish boil, karting, and mini golf, generously hosted by our partner, NOLA Motorsports Park.
During the event, Carol Schlueter of the German-American Cultural Center and Museum was recognized as the Jefferson Parish Tourism Ambassador of the Year , honoring her outstanding contributions to promoting the destination and enriching the local tourism community.
Recipient, Carol Schlueter, pictured with Violet Peters, VJP President & CEO, and Gene Sausse, VJP Chairman of the Board
The hospitality industry has long recognized the importance of strong community partnerships in driving long-term success. With this in mind, in 2025 Visit Jefferson Parish continued its partnerships with our Community Champion Program, an initiative designed to strengthen collaboration with local organizations and businesses. This program focuses on increasing both financial support and public awareness of the significant impact tourism has on the community, demonstrating how a thriving visitor economy delivers meaningful, measurable benefits for residents and local businesses alike.
Through this initiative, Visit Jefferson Parish proudly partners with LCMC Health as its official healthcare partner and BMW as the official luxury vehicle partner, further enhancing the destination’s network of strategic collaborations.
LOVE THE BOOT WEEK
Members of the Visit Jefferson Parish team joined the cleanup efforts during the Love the Boot Week sponsored by Keep Louisiana Beautiful. More than 35 volunteers cleaned the Bonnabel Boat Launch, loading up 45 bags of trash!
A proud partner of the Keep Louisiana Beautiful initiative, Visit Jefferson Parish teamed up with civic organizations, businesses, and citizens volunteering in the annual Love the Boot Week clean-up event.
A clean and welcoming destination attracts visitors. It tells visitors that we care; that our communities and neighborhoods are important and valued. This leads to more fulfilling and memorable adventures and potentially increased visitation and economic growth.
VISIT JEFFERSON PARISH TEAM
Violet Peters, CDME PRESIDENT & CEO violet@visitjeffersonparish.com
Terrie Birkel, CDME VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING & COO terrie@visitjeffersonparish.com
Allison Driscoll, CPA VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE & CFO allison@visitjeffersonparish.com
Alex Clancy
FESTIVALS & EVENTS MANAGER alex@visitjeffersonparish.com
Faye Broussard-Dauzat
DIGITAL MARKETING & SOCIAL CONTENT MANAGER faye@visitjeffersonparish.com
Randall Michel DIRECTOR OF SALES randall@visitjeffersonparish.com
Nicole Allen SALES MANAGER nicole@visitjeffersonparish.com
Jacquette Bensing
DESTINATION SALES & SERVICES jacquette@visitjeffersonparish.com
Lauri Zeringue EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES lauri@visitjeffersonparish.com
Erin Schneider FINANCE & ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST erin@visitjeffersonparish.com
Kristine Mejia PARTNER SERVICES COORDINATOR kristine@visitjeffersonparish.com
