The first day of summer presents a vibrant opportunity for DMOs to ignite wanderlust, attract summer seekers and showcase their destinations as the perfect escape for sun-soaked adventures.
Here are some** AI-generated tips** on how to maximise the potential in your marketing calendar.
Pre-Summer Buzz:
- Run "Summer Escape Photo Contests": Encourage user-generated content by asking participants to share photos of their ideal summer getaways or memories. Offer prizes like travel vouchers, summer-themed merchandise or stays at your destination.
- Partner with Summer-Focused Influencers and Media: Collaborate with travel bloggers, lifestyle personalities, or outdoor adventure experts to host online talks, live Q&A sessions, or virtual tours highlighting your destination's summer offerings, hidden gems and unique experiences.
- Develop "Summer Fun Guides": Create online or printable guides featuring beaches, water activities, hiking trails, outdoor festivals and local summer events. Include insider tips on beating the heat, packing essentials and discovering hidden gems.
- Organise Virtual "Taste of Summer" Cooking Demos: Partner with local chefs or restaurants to offer online cooking classes focused on refreshing summer dishes, grilling techniques, or tropical cocktails. Share recipes and encourage virtual cooking parties.
Summer Solstice Celebrations:
- Host Outdoor Festivals and Events: Organise beach parties, live music concerts, movie screenings under the stars, food truck gatherings, or fireworks displays to celebrate the arrival of summer. Create a festive atmosphere and attract residents and visitors alike.
- Turn Up the "Sunshine Factor": Partner with local businesses to offer special discounts or themed experiences on the first day of summer. Feature summer menus at restaurants, organise beach volleyball tournaments or offer free sunscreen samples at tourist spots.
- Promote Seasonal Tours and Activities: Highlight kayaking excursions, stand-up paddleboarding tours, surfing lessons or boat trips to scenic islands. Offer guided hikes in national parks, bike tours through charming towns or sunset yoga sessions on the beach.
- Offer Special "Summer Sun Escape" Travel Packages: Design travel packages featuring accommodation at beachfront hotels, access to water sports equipment, discounts on outdoor activities and curated itineraries for sun-seekers. Cater to solo travellers, couples and families.
Post-Summer Solstice Momentum:
- Share the Summer Stories: Compile and share photos, videos, and testimonials from summer solstice events on your social media channels and website. Showcase the joy of the season, the vibrant activities and the unforgettable experiences at your destination.
- Offer "Endless Summer Escape" Travel Packages: Design year-round travel packages highlighting your destination's warm weather options, even beyond peak season. Feature golfing getaways, spa retreats, cultural events and unique experiences like stargazing or dolphin watching.
- Run retargeting campaigns: Target users who engaged with pre-summer activities or viewed summer-related content with post-event promotions and special offers. Remind them of the warm weather vibes at your destination and incentivise them to book their summer escape.
- Continue the Summer Connection: Throughout the year, keep your destination on top of mind by sharing summer-themed content, highlighting upcoming events and partnering with travel operators to promote off-season travel deals.
Remember:
- Cater to Diverse Summer Seekers: Tailor your marketing to different interests, from adventure enthusiasts to relaxation-seekers. Offer family-friendly activities, romantic escapes and solo traveller adventures.
- Focus on the Joy of Summer: Capture the excitement, carefree spirit, and beauty of the season in your marketing visuals and messaging. Use vibrant colours, positive language and inspiring stories to ignite wanderlust.
- Embrace the Sense of Place: Showcase the unique summer experiences your destination offers. Highlight regional cuisine, local summer traditions and natural wonders that set your region apart.
- Go Beyond the First Day: The first day of summer is a springboard to position your destination as the perfect summer escape year-round. Emphasise your warm weather offerings, outdoor activities and vibrant atmosphere, welcoming visitors to savour the sunshine and create lasting summer memories at your destination.
By creatively leveraging the first day of summer, DMOs can spark excitement, attract summer travellers and solidify their region as a premier destination for sun-soaked adventures and unforgettable experiences. So, spread the sunshine, celebrate the warmth and let the first day of summer be the first step in welcoming visitors to a year-round journey of summer delights at your destination!
