The eTourism Summit Connect Spring Marketplace, held April 14-16 in Louisville, KY, brought together thousands of event organizers, destination leaders, and industry innovators for three days of powerful connections, education, and business opportunities.

Scroll through our photo gallery below to find out what the experience was like and to spark ideas for your own marketing ventures.

Derby Days. We galloped into Louisville, bringing the energy of Derby season to the Kentucky International Convention Center for three unforgettable days of networking, learning, and celebration.

Kentucky Hug. A warm Kentucky welcome awaited attendees at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, where Louisville Tourism set the tone with a bourbon tasting room near baggage claim—proof that hospitality starts the moment you land.

The Latest Tech. Innovation at its finest: fielddrive’s facial authentication technology streamlined registration, letting attendees upload their photos in advance and print badges in seconds upon arrival.

Sense of Arrival. Connect’s signature regiception blended registration with revelry, featuring custom fascinators, live bluegrass music, and bourbon pours courtesy of Louisville Tourism—setting the stage for an unforgettable event.

Fascinators and Fedoras. Attendees embraced Derby style with fascinators and fedoras, crafting their own hats with guidance from Kentucky Derby Museum pros. The perfect accessory for Louisville’s signature flair.

Inspiring Keynote. Jesse Itzler electrified the audience with his keynote on becoming a 'Spiritual Billionaire,' unlocking powerhouse mindsets and setting the tone for a transformative event.

Content is King. Industry leaders like Freeman’s Ken Holsinger (pictured above), Visit Orlando’s Lisa Messina, and Tourism Economics’ Adam Sacks delivered cutting-edge insights, proving that knowledge truly reigns supreme.

Off-Site Opener. A breathtaking sunset, bluegrass melodies, and bourbon tastings welcomed attendees to the Paristown Arts & Entertainment District—a first-time activation that left everyone in awe.

Password Please. The Gatsby-themed party at the historic Seelbach Hotel transported attendees to the Roaring Twenties, complete with vintage glamour and unforgettable ambiance.

Get Outside. Connect broke tradition with an outdoor luncheon, shutting down the street and taking over the park across from KICC for a vibrant midday celebration.

Memorable Moments. Cowboy Cannolis, ponies, and bluegrass tunes set the stage for a luncheon to remember, featuring lobster, prime rib, and, of course, more bourbon.

White Night. The annual White Party at Churchill Downs dazzled attendees with world-class horses, live music, all-white decor, and endless photo ops—an iconic celebration of Louisville’s Derby spirit.

Co-Located Events. The eTourism Summit brought together more than 200 destination marketing innovators to shape the future of tourism, co-located with Connect Spring Marketplace for maximum impact.

eTourism Summit is headed to The Wynn Las Vegas in 2027.