This week, the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce (GECC) and the Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization (EDMO), in collaboration with Mayor J. Christian Bollwage, joined city officials and regional leaders at The Mills at Jersey Gardens to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Elizabeth Tourism. The event highlighted the city’s cultural, economic, and global milestones, marking a decade of tourism growth and community engagement.

The City of Elizabeth is celebrating ten successful years of a flourishing tourism industry, reflecting a period of significant growth, cultural exploration, and active community involvement. The celebration, held on Monday, May 5, aligned with National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an initiative from the U.S. Travel Association that emphasizes the pivotal role of travel in boosting the economy, strengthening communities, and connecting people nationwide. Over the past decade, Elizabeth’s tourism sector has attracted millions of visitors, supported local businesses, and showcased the city’s rich history and dynamic cultural diversity.

In 2024, Elizabeth saw a significant boost in tourism, with visitors contributing a record-breaking $748 million in spending—an increase of 1.8% over the previous year. This rise in spending, fueled in part by higher costs for goods and services, resulted in a total economic impact of $1.1 billion.

Tourism activity generated 8,743 jobs, produced $381 million in labor income, and contributed $119 million in state and local tax revenues. The food and beverage sector emerged as the largest contributor to spending, totaling $225 million. Tourism continues to play an essential role in Elizabeth’s economy, sustaining one in every nine jobs and alleviating $2,600 in taxes per household. The city’s visitor economy serves as a robust engine for economic development, driving business growth, creating employment opportunities, and generating significant marketing revenue while lightening the tax burden for local residents.

“This 10-year milestone is just the beginning for an even better upcoming decade.” said Jennifer Costa, Executive Director of the Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization. “With global events on the horizon, we’re ready to welcome the world and show them everything Elizabeth has to offer.”

In a lively celebration held at New Jersey’s premier outlet shopping destination, Elizabeth marked a decade of tourism excellence with a sophisticated indoor cocktail reception. The event brought together elected officials, civic leaders, cultural partners, and distinguished guests, showcasing the city’s growth as a dynamic and internationally recognized destination. Notable speeches were delivered by Mayor J. Christian Bollwage and Mr. Alex Lasry, CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee, highlighting Elizabeth’s emergence as a key player in global tourism.

This landmark occasion celebrated the power of collaboration, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Elizabeth Public Schools Visual & Performing Arts Department, the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, and the Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization. Each of these partners has played a crucial role in shaping the city’s vibrant tourism sector and fostering community pride and unity.

Business leaders, tourism advocates, and residents reflected on the significant economic development driven by tourism over the past decade, including enhanced international visibility, expanded hotel infrastructure, and increased visitor engagement. Elizabeth has evolved into a sought-after destination, attracting travelers from around the world while creating fresh opportunities for local businesses and communities.

The evening included remarks from city officials, captivating cultural performances, and a focus on the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, where Elizabeth will play a vital regional role. This highlighted the city’s growing strategic importance in both the sports and tourism industries.

The Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce played an integral role in hosting the event, reaffirming its dedication to supporting local businesses and promoting Elizabeth as a prime travel destination.

Open to the public, the event embodied the inclusive and community-driven spirit that has fueled the success of Elizabeth Tourism. Guests enjoyed networking opportunities, live performances by talented students from the Elizabeth Public Schools Visual & Performing Arts Department, delicious refreshments from Valença restaurant, and a shared sense of pride in the city’s achievements and future prospects.

With its rich cultural events, Elizabeth is New Jersey’s most accessible travel gateway, just minutes away from New York City and Newark Liberty International Airport. The city’s authentic history draws tourists to its historic landmarks, as well as to The Mills at Jersey Gardens, a high-end outlet mall with no tax on clothes and shoes, and its bustling entertainment districts.

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