AITC 2023

We Are Still Here

25th Annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference
October 2-5, 2023

Choctaw Casino & Resort – Durant
4216 US-69
Durant, Oklahoma 74701
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

It’s an exciting time for travel and tourism in America’s Indigenous communities! The Annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference is marking its 25th Anniversary this year, and the energy is palpable. Taking place at the Choctaw Casino & Resort in Durant, Oklahoma from October 2-5, 2024! This must attend event is for anyone looking to grow their presence in this vibrant Tribal tourism industry. Join over 300 attendees for networking opportunities, high-level keynotes, and informative sessions led by top hospitality and tourism experts. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate and elevate indigenous tourism!

Discover the Value of Attending the AITC

Are you interested in gaining invaluable insights into Indigenous Tourism? Look no further than the AITC – the perfect event for those looking to connect with fellow Tribal leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals in areas such as tourism, museums, fish and wildlife, parks and recreation and more. Even if you are not directly involved in the industry, media professionals and travel enthusiasts alike can benefit from attending this conference and learning more. The event also provides a fantastic networking opportunity for artisans and exhibitors who are interested in showcasing their products and services and forming valuable partnerships. So don’t wait, secure your spot today and take the first step towards advancing your career in American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Tourism that honors traditions and values!

Are you ready to celebrate the 25th Annual AITC with us? This year, we want to make it extra special by inviting everyone to share their favorite AITC memory or story. Whether you are a long-time attendee or a first-timer, your experience is valuable and deserves to be celebrated. AITC has brought together people from all walks of life, fostering connections and creating lasting memories. By sharing your favorite AITC memory or story, you not only honor the event’s rich history but also contribute to its legacy. Your stories have the power to inspire others and encourage them to attend future AITCs. They can showcase the impact this event has had on individuals’ lives, highlighting personal growth, professional development, and lifelong friendships formed at AITC! These are a few things to think about when you share your story:

• What was your most memorable AITC?
• What was your favorite entertainment/event from any of the past AITCs?
• How many AITCs have you attended before?
• Where was your favorite AITC hosted?

7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Open

8:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
General Session – Plated Breakfast 

9:40 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.
Break Out Sessions “6”

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Break Out Sessions “7”

12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Luncheon & General Session

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Break Out Sessions “8”

3:00 p.m. – 4:o0 p.m.
The Heart Speaks (Closing Session)

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is a federally recognized Native American tribe located in Southeastern Oklahoma. The 10,922 square mile reservation is larger than the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with a total population similar to Buffalo, NY. The Choctaw Nation is the third largest tribe in the US with over 200,000 tribal citizens living all over the world. The area economy has historically been dominated by cultivation and extraction of natural resources including fossil fuels, aggregate, and timber. The fertile soil makes the area ideal to multiple crops for harvest and grazing livestock. Oklahoma’s #1 aggregate export and #1 grain import locations are both located in the reservation and over 80% of Oklahoma’s timber harvest comes from three counties in the reservation.

The leisure and hospitality sector has grown considerably over the last 20 years. Between gaming and resort investments made by the tribe and the short term rental investments made by individuals, there are no indications that the sector will slow in the near future.

Investments within the reservation increase economic viability and sustainability, as well as create long-term growth for the Choctaw Nation. Business and economic development expands on the Tribe’s internal resources to build stronger policies and remove barriers for future growth. Opportunities, projects and services have a direct and positive impact on the lives of tribal members and are respectful of the historical and cultural concerns of the Nation.

Visit Choctaw Country today at www.choctawcountry.com!

We are absolutely thrilled and grateful to our incredible sponsors for their support of the American Indian Tourism Conference! Their partnership not only allows AIANTA to lead important discussions, but it also provides the necessary foundation for tribes and indigenous communities to develop, introduce, grow, and sustain cultural tourism. Together, we are making a tremendous impact in promoting and preserving the rich heritage of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. Thank you, sponsors, for your unwavering dedication and enthusiasm!