Join us as we chat with Jessica Holt, the Director of Public Relations and International Tourism for Visit Raleigh, about what makes Raleigh a top destination. From its burgeoning food scene and festivals to its sports and Southern charm, discover the behind-the-scenes magic of promoting Raleigh to the world. Jessica shares insights on how Raleigh balances growth with preserving local flair; attracting visitors for leisure, business, and sports; and enhancing the local economy through tourism. Learn about Raleigh's upcoming events, its unique attractions, and discover hidden gems you might have missed. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this episode will give you plenty of reasons to fall in love with the City of Oaks.

00:00 Welcome to Raleigh: A Southern Gem

01:08 Meet Jessica Holt: Promoting Raleigh Worldwide

01:39 The Mission of Visit Raleigh

02:06 Balancing Growth and Local Charm

02:56 Sports and Event Venues in Raleigh

03:52 Relocating to Raleigh: A Visitor's Journey

04:25 Raleigh's Unique Attractions and Free Offerings

05:35 Target Audiences for Raleigh Tourism

06:40 Music Festivals and Events in Raleigh

09:18 Economic Impact of Events and Festivals

11:23 Exploring Wake County's Surrounding Towns

12:59 Raleigh's Food Scene: Michelin Guide Recognition

17:04 Recent Developments in Raleigh

19:40 Pitching Raleigh: A Diverse and Eclectic Destination

20:28 Diverse Pitches for Different Travelers

21:04 Exciting Events and Festivals in Raleigh

22:23 Upcoming Developments in Raleigh

25:23 Challenges in Increasing Tourism

26:50 International Travel and Comparisons to Raleigh

29:36 Lightning Round: Favorite Spots and Hidden Gems

34:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts