Mark Calitri: Owensboro Tourism Ends 2025 with Major Momentum

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 This post was originally written in 2025, when Owensboro was building early momentum in tourism, events, and community partnerships.

Looking back now, many of these foundations helped lead to the national growth, record bookings, and expanded visibility we’re seeing today.

I’m keeping this post live because it shows how consistency, leadership, and long-term planning create real results.

— Mark Calitri

Mark Calitri outlines success in Owensboro and Daviess County Kentucky as Owensboro closed out 2025 with a surge in tourism activity, and it’s making headlines across Kentucky. Today’s Messenger-Inquirer article highlighted the strong performance of Visit Owensboro and the local hotel community, showing occupancy up 3.47% year-over-year.

 

As President of the Owensboro-Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau, I shared that this past month capped off a steady stretch of revenue, growth, and event activity. Conventions, concerts, and sports continue to be the backbone of our visitor economy—and we’ve seen it in real numbers.

 

Smith Travel Research estimates Owensboro hotels averaged 62.91% occupancy through October, keeping our market competitive statewide.

 

Major contributors include expanded sports tourism, Energy on Ice, the Kentucky Legend Pier, and the opening of the Embassy Suites next to the Convention Center. Each piece strengthens Owensboro’s ability to attract larger, higher-value events.

 

The momentum heading into 2026 is real. More statewide championships are returning, new venues are coming online, and our team is focused on keeping Owensboro at the forefront.

 

👉 Read the full article here: CVB seeing strong end to 2025 | Local News | messenger-inquirer.com

👉 Learn more at Visit Owensboro: https://VisitOwensboro.com

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