NEW ULM — The New Ulm Convention and Visitors Bureau, a committee of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce, is hosting the first annual tourism mixer from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 29, at the New Ulm Conference Center at Best Western Plus.

Tourism plays an important role in the economy of New Ulm. According to the 2019 Tourism and Minnesota’s Economy Fact Sheet published by Explore Minnesota (using 2017 data), travel and tourism in Minnesota generates $15.3 billion in gross sales and $996 million in states sales tax. In Brown County, travel and tourism generates $41,444,501 in gross sales, $2,780,948 in sales tax, and employs 1,163 people.

This event is open to anyone who attracts tourists to New Ulm or benefits from tourist who visit the community. This includes attractions, restaurants, hospitality industry, retailers, festivals, and any volunteers or board members who serve in this field. The tourism mixer is a networking event for people in the industry to get together. Attendees have the opportunity to share a brief update, if they wish. Light appetizers will be provided and a cash bar will be available.

The tourism mixer kicks off the tourism season in New Ulm, and takes place the week before National Travel and Tourism Week, which is May 5-11. The 2019 New Ulm Tourism Person of the Year will be announced at the event. Applications are being accepted through April 19 and are available at the Chamber of Commerce office, or you can request one via email at chamber@newulm.com.

The tourism mixer begins at 4 p.m., with the program at 5:30 p.m. The 2019 tourism person of the year will be announced following the program. There is no cost to attend this event, but reservations are required. RSVP by April 25 to the Chamber of Commerce via phone (507-233-4300), email (chamber@newulm.com), or online at www.newulm.com.