🌿 Transforming Tourism from the Cape to the World
Each year, CREST’s World Tourism Day Forum convenes global leaders, local changemakers, and cross-sector voices to reimagine the future of tourism. In 2025, we’re delighted to bring the Forum to Cape Cod, Massachusetts – a region where the tension between economic dependence on tourism and the need for ecological and cultural preservation is both urgent and deeply visible.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pelham House Resort, our Marquee Sponsor and values-aligned host venue, this year’s Forum will focus on a bold theme:
Sustainable Transformation
From climate change to overtourism to disruptive technologies, the tourism sector faces enormous pressures. This Forum is designed to move from conversation to action – equipping destinations, businesses, academics, and communities with the strategies, tools, and partnerships needed to respond to this moment.
Collaborate. Innovate. Transform.
The World Tourism Day Forum is more than a conference, it’s a collaborative platform for action – grounded in place, led by cross-sector stakeholders, and focused on outcomes that matter. CREST events aim to bridge researchers to practitioners, industry to civil society, and ideas to action.
This year’s Forum centers on a defining question:
In order for destinations – particularly the Cape & Islands – to meet the demands of a growing visitor economy while preventing further harm from climate change, overtourism, and technological disruption, how must we sustainably transform?
Through immersive sessions, regional case studies, and bold dialogue, the Forum will explore how transformation can take root across tourism systems – from business operations to public policy to research and education.
What to Expect
Audience
150–200 attendees from New England and around the world, including leaders from tourism, government, academia, and civil society. The 2024 Forum in Atlanta welcomed participants from 16 countries and 22 U.S. states.
Format
A three-day program that blends high-level discussion, curated panels, hands-on engagement, meaningful networking, rigorous research review, and destination experiences.
Highlights Include
* A Strong Regional Emphasis on resilience, innovation, and community-based tourism in the Cape & Islands.
* Workshops & Strategy Labs focused on action and sharing case studies for sustainable transformation, climate adaptation, and equitable governance.
* Peer-Reviewed Ideas Exchange & Academic Poster Session, led by CREST’s Academic Affiliates Network. Engage with the latest in though leadership.
* A Field-Based Stewardship Day, hosted by presenting partner CARE for the Cape & Islands and local nonprofit partners.
* Cultural Programming, networking events, and locally sourced meals that reflect the identity of the Cape & Islands.
The Venue
The Forum will be held at Pelham House Resort, a premier property and Marquee Sponsor, located on the waterfront in Dennis Port. With a strong commitment to sustainability and local engagement, Pelham House offers the ideal environment for meaningful conversation, collaboration, and connection.
Get Involved
The 2025 World Tourism Day Forum is an opportunity to contribute to bold, necessary change in how tourism is designed and experienced. We invite you to join us as a collaborator, sponsor, and thought partner.
- Register Your Interest
Want to attend the Forum? Share your contact information and we’ll notify you as soon as registration opens. - View Sponsorship Opportunities
Learn how your organization can support the Forum and gain year-round visibility. Packages start at $2,500 and can be customized to fit your business!
For questions or partnership inquiries, contact:
📧 Wes Espinosa, Executive Director – wespinosa@responsibletravel.org
Presented in Collaboration with CARE for the Cape & Islands
We’re proud to announce this year’s local presenting partner – CARE for the Cape & Islands – a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural, cultural, and historical treasures of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. As the Forum’s regional co-presenter, CARE ensures this event is not only hosted on the Cape – but created with the Cape.
From leading a hands-on Stewardship Experience Day to shaping local programming and partnerships, CARE brings invaluable insight, relationships, and commitment to place-based sustainability. Their involvement grounds the Forum in real community impact and ensures our global conversations stay rooted in the needs and voices of the region.
