How global events will affect Louisiana's tourism industry

Yahoo

13-05-2025

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—Louisiana is entering a new era of tourism that will reach every bayou and small town in the state.
With global events like the FIFA World Cup and the 2026 Olympics on the horizon, leaders are now seizing the moment to showcase everything our great state has to offer.
Walt Leger, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, stopped by our morning shows to discuss how tourism is evolving and how major events are contributing.
$95M settlement over Siri eavesdropping claims approved: How to make a claim
Leger says events like Super Bowl LIX attract thousands of people to Louisiana.
'We are competing with states and cities all over the country that have massive populations. What we know is that when people travel, they want to have variety of experiences and so we certainly want to utilize the brand that is New Orleans, to be able to attract people but we also want them to get out and experience more things,' says Leger.
Although the FIFA World Cup does not have any matches in Louisiana, matches in surrounding areas like Houston and Dallas mean spectators will be traveling through our state, and this is an opportunity for Louisiana to showcase its food, culture, and hospitality.
Leger says driving tourism to Louisiana means adding dollars to our local economy.
'There's about 50,000 visitors to Louisiana, a little more than that, every year. I tell people it's everyone's favorite tax dollar. Somebody else's, from somewhere else, that they leave behind here for the benefit of our community. When we work to attract people to our city and to our state, it reduces the tax burden on all of us and pays for infrastructure, education, so many of the things we need in our community,' he explains.
New Orleans & Company says that by working closely with regional and national tourism groups, it is making sure that Louisiana remains top of mind for travelers worldwide, showcasing not just the Crescent City but the cultural, historic, and natural gems found throughout the state.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.