More than 7.5 million people are expected to visit New Hampshire this winter season, a 5 percent increase from last year and they are predicted to spend over $1 billion, 7 percent more than last year.

The winter outlook and a preview of the Department of Resources and Economic Development’s winter marketing campaign were unveiled Dec. 17 at the Littleton Welcome and Information Center.

DRED, in collaboration with the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, joined with state and local officials and members of the state’s tourism industry to kick off winter operations at the state’s three seasonal centers in Colebrook, Lebanon, and Littleton, which are reopening for the season as part of a pilot project.

“The winter season is a significant contributor to the overall health of the state’s travel sector, producing more than $1 billion in visitor spending,” said DRED Commissioner Jeff Rose. “The three seasonal welcome and information centers provide New Hampshire with significant marketing potential for visitors coming to the state.”

“DOT and DRED have worked collaboratively on the management of the state’s Welcome and Information Centers, providing important services to the motoring public,” said DOT Commissioner Victoria Sheehan. “The seasonal facilities that are reopening today, along Interstate 93, 89 and along US Route 3, are all major entry points in the northern and western parts of New Hampshire.”

During the event, the state previewed its winter marketing campaign, which encourages visitors to Make Tracks in New Hampshire this winter.

“The ‘Make Tracks’ campaign is a refreshed, integrated approach that leverages the popularity of skiing, while encouraging visitors to explore more of what makes New Hampshire the best destination in New England when the mercury drops,” said Division of Travel and Tourism Director Victoria Cimino. “It’s rooted in the ability to experience the season on your own terms, knowing that whatever path you take, it’s going to lead to fun and adventure.”

For winter vacation ideas, make tracks to visitnh.gov.

Tags: Commissioner Jeffrey Rose, Division of Travel and Tourism Development, winter forecast

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