Montgomery County moved in perfect time at the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board’s annual luncheon, a celebration of record momentum and resilience for local travel. This year’s theme was ‘rhythm.’ “When we work in rhythm, good things happen,” said VFTCB President & CEO Mike Bowman.
Bowman and the VFTCB team set the tempo for a packed house of 700. They saluted partners across hotels, attractions, and main streets. The event spotlighted signature wins from the Truist Championship and the National Dog Show in Oaks to Eataly’s arrival and a reimagined 2026 calendar.
Commissioners Neil Makhija, Jamila Winder, and Tom DiBello amped the room with pride and stats. Nearly 8 million visitors last year spent close to $2 billion here. This fueled roughly 41,000 local jobs and a $2.6 billion impact. The beat keeps building with 100 miles of county-owned trails, a growing Arts Montco scene, and the 20th anniversary of the Rev Run powering Valley Forge Park.
Netflix House Philadelphia’s general manager, Jennie Herreid, previewed the King of Prussia venue opening on November 12. The venue promises an ever-changing playground of immersive experiences, dining, VR, and private events designed to keep fans coming back.
Governor Josh Shapiro, Montco-born and raised, made a surprise appearance. He championed tourism as big business and praised Bowman, the VFTCB board, and partners for turning momentum into jobs and national attention.
Keynote speaker Jared Orton, president of the Savannah Bananas, brought showmanship lessons that fit Montco’s ethos. He encouraged all to create experiences so memorable that your customers say, “you wouldn’t believe what they did.” That spirit already shows. PGA of America’s Ryan Ogle noted the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink is pacing ahead of past events, with weekend tickets sold out.
The spirit in the room was unmistakable. Montco continues to rise, drawing visitors from near and far. As America approaches its 250th birthday, Valley Forge and Montgomery County stand ready, not only to share their history, but to showcase a thriving present and an even brighter future.
