Published on
September 21, 2025

Tourism and Hospitality Week 2025 will be held from September 23 to October 1, commemorating the economic importance of the tourism and hospitality industry to the economy of Northern Ireland. Hosted by Tourism Northern Ireland, Hospitality Ulster, the Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance (NITA), and a number of other key partners, the event will also draw attention to the economic contribution of the industry, which creates £1.1 billion for the local economy, supports more than 70,000 jobs, and sustains almost 6,000 businesses.

Tourism and Hospitality Week 2025 to Shine a Spotlight on Northern Ireland’s Key Sector

This week-long celebration is designed to showcase the sector’s growth and achievements, while also fostering collaboration across various tourism stakeholders. The event will include educational activities, networking events, and public awareness initiatives, giving both industry professionals and the general public the opportunity to engage with the diverse experiences that Northern Ireland’s tourism sector has to offer.

Building on Last Year’s Success: Events and Highlights of the Week

Tourism and Hospitality Week 2025 follows the success of its inaugural event in 2024. This year’s program will feature a diverse range of activities aimed at promoting sustainability and resilience within the sector. Among the key events are:

  • A celebration for businesses part of Tourism NI’s “Embrace A Giant Spirit” portfolio, emphasizing the promotion of local attractions.
  • Learning sessions for college tutors offering tourism-related education in further and higher education courses.
  • A collaboration event for Tourism NI’s Food and Drink Network, showcasing local food and drink offerings.
  • A gathering for stakeholders and businesses to discuss the “Embracing Outdoor Tourism” framework.

One exciting addition this year is the call for industry members to engage with the initiative online by posting photos and videos using the hashtag #tourismhospitalityweek25, showcasing the sector’s impact and importance.

Tourism’s Role in Northern Ireland’s Economy

Economy Minister Dr. Caoimhe Archibald remarked that Tourism and Hospitality Week “places a deserved spotlight on the people and places that make Northern Ireland such an attractive destination.” She emphasized that tourism is vital to the regional economy, providing jobs across the region. Dr. Archibald expressed her commitment to further supporting and developing the sector, ensuring its continued growth.

Eimear Callaghan, Head of Experience and Industry Development at Tourism NI, added that the aim is to establish Northern Ireland as a year-round destination, known for its authentic experiences, landscapes, and cultural heritage. She stated, “Shining a light on the sector will help achieve our ambitious goal of growing its worth.”

NITA Conference: Tourism in a Shifting World

A major part of Tourism and Hospitality Week 2025 will be the NITA Conference held on September 30 at Larchfield Estate, Lisburn. The theme of the conference, “Tourism in a Shifting World,” will explore how tourism can balance growth with sustainability. With the global tourism landscape undergoing rapid change, this conference will provide insights into how innovation and resilience can help the industry thrive.

A Focus on Employment and Careers in Tourism

For Hospitality Ulster, CEO Colin Neill emphasized that the week also offers a chance to reflect on how the tourism and hospitality sectors contribute to job creation and career development. He noted that Hospitality Ulster is working with partners in further education to provide modern qualifications and career pathways for young people entering the tourism industry.

A Stronger Future for Northern Ireland’s Tourism Sector

Tourism and Hospitality Week is not merely a celebration; it’s an important step in the direction of appreciation and propagation of Northern Ireland’s tourism sector on a broader level. Highlighting the region’s growth, sustainability, and job prospects, the campaign can be expected to fuel the sustained success of tourism for Northern Ireland.

Through innovative partnerships with major stakeholders and an emphasis on job creation, sustainability, and innovation, Tourism and Hospitality Week 2025 will be instrumental in setting the tone for the future of tourism in Northern Ireland. This event is a reminder of the potential of the region and the existential significance of tourism in its long-term economic growth.