Haywood County, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Haywood County has been selected to host the Society of American Travel Writers conference in 2026, welcoming over 100 travel journalists. The four-day event at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center will feature networking, workshops, and local excursions, showcasing Western North Carolina’s culture and outdoor activities. This opportunity is expected to boost local businesses and enhance the region’s tourism economy by drawing significant media attention.
Haywood County to Host Major Travel Writers Conference in 2026
Haywood County is set to welcome over 100 travel journalists and content creators in October 2026, as the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) chooses the region for its annual conference. The event will take place at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center and will feature a schedule packed with networking opportunities, workshops, and excursions designed to showcase the local culture and outdoor adventures of Western North Carolina.
During the four-day conference, attendees will immerse themselves in the area’s renowned cuisine and rich cultural heritage. Participants are expected to engage in various activities including hiking, biking, pottery making, farm tours, and dining experiences that highlight the uniqueness of the landscape and community.
The successful bid to host the conference was submitted by Visit Haywood, underscoring the competitive nature of this opportunity. The SATW traditionally gathers travel industry professionals from diverse locations; past conference sites have included high-profile destinations like Detroit, Istanbul, and Puerto Rico.
According to estimates, the conference could significantly impact local businesses and attractions by boosting visitor spending and enhancing regional exposure. This influx of travel professionals will provide the county with a unique platform to promote its offerings, including the endpoints of the famous Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains, alongside charming small towns such as Canton, Clyde, Lake Junaluska, Maggie Valley, and Waynesville.
Furthermore, local officials and tourism leaders recognize the importance of this timing for the tourism economy in the region. The event will not only draw attention from the attendees but is also anticipated to result in long-lasting benefits for the community’s hospitality and service sectors, as influencing content creators will amplify Haywood County’s appeal in media outlets worldwide.
The SATW has been a significant presence in the travel industry since its establishment in 1955 and boasts a membership of over 800 professionals from around the globe. Members contribute to major publications and broadcasting networks, providing valuable advertising opportunities for the host locations.
Background Context
In recent years, tourism has become an essential aspect of Haywood County’s economy, with the area rapidly developing its resources to attract visitors year-round. Events such as the SATW conference enhance the visibility of local attractions while also promoting collaboration among regional businesses. With its diverse outdoor activities, artistic endeavors, and rich history, Haywood County is strategically positioned to benefit from increased media attention generated by such high-profile events.
Conclusion
Haywood County’s upcoming opportunity to host the SATW conference in 2026 is not just an event; it is a significant marker of the area’s commitment to promoting its cultural and natural assets to a global audience. It highlights the future of tourism in the region as it continues to develop its offerings and expand its reach.
FAQ
What is the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)?
The SATW is a professional association founded in 1955, consisting of over 800 members who are engaged in travel writing and communication across various platforms.
When will the SATW conference take place in Haywood County?
The conference is scheduled for October 2026 and will last for four days.
Where will the conference be held?
The annual conference will be held at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center.
What types of activities will attendees participate in during the conference?
Attendees will experience local culture through excursions that include hiking, biking, pottery, farm tours, and dining.
What impact can hosting the SATW conference have on Haywood County?
Hosting the conference can lead to increased visitor spending and greater exposure for local businesses and attractions.
Key Features of the SATW Conference
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Year | 2026 |
| Location | Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Haywood County |
| Attendees | Over 100 travel journalists and content creators |
| Duration | Four days in October |
| Activities Included | Networking, workshops, excursions featuring local culture and outdoor adventures |
| Impact on Local Economy | Expected increase in visitor spending and exposure for local businesses |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: Haywood County to Host National Travel Writers Conference
- 828 News Now: Hardware Store Returning to Swannanoa
- 828 News Now: Major Traffic Delays on I-26/I-240
- The Mountaineer: Tourism Board Hopeful Despite Trends
- News Observer: North Carolina News
- Wikipedia: Tourism in the United States
- Britannica: Travel
- Google Search: Haywood County Travel Conference
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
