Are We Sexy? Cultural Arts & Tourism?

People go to what they think are events or locals they think are cool, different, hip - the must see, do or engage in activities and venue - what they perceive as desirable.  Take three recent examples:  the Fresno Grand Opera's Marcello Giordoni concert, the Fresno Philharmonic's Son of the San Joaquin outdoor pops concert at Woodward Park and Patrick Contreras's CD Release Party in the Tower. The FGO and FP events were sell outs and both each took tremendous active support from their boards and volunteers, Patrick had about 500 people packed in behind the Tower Theater.

But what role did the tourism vehicles play? Local tourism efforts - maybe, just maybe, some with the FGO and Phil, with Patrick's probably none.  What about the long list of other impressive events and activities happening in our valley?  The CVB is working hard to promote the cultural arts, but is just starting to stratch the surface on what is needed.  There is nothing happening at the regional level and our state tourism commission is limited in funding and their website, while greatly improved and finally includes the Central Valley, the state site doesn't even mention Fresno.

If we are to have the cultural sector become a real partner in toruism, we must become involved.  Or else, we can continue to be voices complaining to the wind with no right to expect change.

To help us develop cultural heritage (arts, science & history) tours, by adding your thoughts, ideas, concerns to the FCASH survey on Cultural Arts Tours.  And get your friends to help too!