New York State Tourism Conference to Bring Hundreds of Professionals to Utica, Generating Local Business Revenue
September 18, 2025 (Utica, NY) — Oneida County Tourism (OCT) is proud to announce that Utica, New York has been selected as the host destination for the 2026 New York State Tourism Conference, presented by the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA). The event will be held April 22-24, 2026 in downtown Utica at Delta Hotels by Marriott Utica, welcoming more than 200 tourism professionals from across New York State to the heart of Central NY.
As the official host organization, OCT will coordinate efforts to welcome the state’s tourism industry leaders. The conference is expected to generate over 250 hotel room nights and an estimated $75,000 in direct spending at local restaurants, coffee shops, and businesses as attendees explore the community during their stay.
“Hosting the 2026 New York State Tourism Conference is an incredible honor for Oneida County Tourism and for our community,” said Sarah Foster Calero, President, Oneida County Tourism and Board Member of NYSTIA. “I’ve attended this conference in other parts of New York, and now it’s our turn. For me, this is about more than welcoming colleagues from across the state—it’s our chance to give attendees a taste of what makes us special, and I’m not just talking about chicken riggies and halfmoons. We’re excited to create a conference experience that delivers tremendous value while giving everyone a true sense of place here in CNY.”
“Oneida County is proud to host the NYSTIA Conference and to showcase all that our region has to offer,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “From our rich history and cultural attractions to our natural beauty and growing hospitality industry, this gathering provides an incredible opportunity to highlight why Oneida County is such a unique and welcoming destination for visitors from across New York State and beyond.”
Why Utica Was Chosen
Utica’s growing hospitality infrastructure, central location in the state, and recent investments all played a role in the selection. From Turning Stone Resort Casino’s Evolution expansion in Verona to the Utica University Nexus Center, a thriving food and beverage scene, and rising recognition of the area’s arts and heritage, the city continues to be an increasingly attractive hub for events of all kinds.
Madison Cermak, Director of Operations at Oneida County Tourism, is leading this effort alongside OCT President Sarah Foster Calero and the NYSTIA executive team to bring the conference to Utica.
Lee Arthur General Manager Delta Hotels by Marriott Utica, said, “We’re so excited to welcome the New York State Tourism industry to the Delta Marriott Utica. We are looking forward to showcasing not only our hotel, but also Oneida County and all the exciting things happening around the city.”
Conference programming will include keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, along with off-site learning classrooms and immersion tours at attractions across the county. These hands-on experiences will highlight Oneida County’s cultural, historical, and recreational offerings, demonstrating firsthand why the region is a premier travel destination.
About Oneida County Tourism
Oneida County Tourism is the official tourism promotion agency for Oneida County, representing Utica, Rome, Verona, and Sylvan Beach. Through strategic marketing and public relations, the organization attracts visitors across sectors, including leisure, meetings, sports, travel trade, and film/TV production. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, Oneida County Tourism is dedicated to showcasing the region’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.
OCT continues to promote events, attractions, and visitor experiences that make Oneida County a premier destination. Learn more by visiting oneidacountytourism.com, following OCT on social media, or reading Sarah’s monthly Buzzworthy column in Mohawk Valley Living.
Photo Credit: Matt Ossowski
