Delegates from across the United States and Canada converged in York, PA, November 14-18, 2025 for the 6th annual Accent East Tourism Conference. This region is know as the birthplace of the Articles of Confederation and a treasure trove of American history.
Produced by Mid-Atlantic Receptive Services (MARS) and hosted by Explore York, the conference was designed to better acquaint tour operators with destinations, hotels, attractions, and restaurants to help them build tour products. Speakers, brainstorming sessions, itinerary planning, networking activities, a trade show, and local area tours were among the offerings available to delegates.
Big business is done in small groups—and Accent East was the perfect example. Delegates truly got to know and learn from one another while discovering the diversity of attractions and historical treasures in York. Relationship-building and the sharing of best practices are what make the Accent brand so popular.
Delegates enjoyed a grand time at the Opening Night Reception, sponsored by Visit South Bend and Visit Shipshewana (hosts of the 2026 Accent East Conference). The next day began with a breakfast sponsored by the Wyndham Garden Hotel, followed by a keynote address on agritourism—blending travel with culture and food while supporting local farmers and rural communities. Julie Keene from Flinchbaugh’s Orchard and Farm Market shared her love for her farm, along with her experiences and industry connections. Judy McConnell from Shipshewana followed with insights on how operators can work with their DMOs to package agritourism attractions. A breakout session by industry segment (hotels, attractions, DMOs, operators) and a panel discussion followed, allowing delegates to share current issues, successes, and new ideas. Lunch, sponsored by Visit Richmond, VA, rounded out the morning.
In the afternoon, a trade show matched operators with a wide range of suppliers. Dinner and cocktails at Wyndridge Farm, sponsored by Explore York, concluded the evening.
The Accent Supports Local Breakfast, sponsored by the Greater Birmingham CVB, featured six small local businesses: Shear Heaven Farm, High Hotels, Ltd., Living the Experience, the Historic Prospect Hill Cemetery Heritage Foundation, Aviator Brew Hub, and Four Points by Sheraton. In addition to sharing information about their organizations, each participated in Accent’s most popular session—Itinerary Planning. Operators took what they learned at the trade show, brainstormed with suppliers, and produced actual itineraries onsite. All seven itineraries were then presented to the group.
“Thank you for organizing such a fantastic Accent East conference and FAM tour. As a new startup in the travel industry, this was my first experience at an event like this, and I can’t express how much it meant to feel so welcomed and supported by you and the community”
Michelle Laudermilk of Infinite Vagabonds
“Every detail was so thoughtfully planned—from the venue selection to the sponsorships to the give-back opportunities and the organization of the FAM tour, as well as the efficient and fun ‘speed dating’ trade show format. It was such a great way to connect with a wide range of suppliers and fellow professionals in a meaningful way.” Laudermilk continued, “More than just the logistics, I appreciated the warmth and encouragement I felt throughout the event. I left feeling reenergized and inspired, with new ideas and connections that are invaluable as I continue to grow Infinite Vagabonds. I’m already looking forward to the next event!”
Prior to the conference, operators explored an array of attractions and enjoyed the hospitality of numerous York tourism partners. The FAM began with shopping and lunch at the Markets at Shrewsbury, a traditional Amish farmers market featuring 19 merchants selling everything from locally grown produce, Amish baked and canned goods, and farm-fresh meats and cheeses to traditional PA Dutch furniture, crafts, and gifts. Next on the agenda was a tour and train ride with the Northern Central Railway of York. This historic attraction, featuring a replica 1860s steam locomotive, provides excursions that educate, entertain, and enlighten. The fun-filled day wrapped up with operators sharing stories and laughter over fresh, sustainably sourced seafood at Rockfish Public House.
The next day, the group toured the York County History Center, inspiring a deeper exploration of the history, people, and accomplishments of York County and the state of Pennsylvania. A highlight of the day was the Articles of Confederation Day Celebration, complete with a block party, lively music, food, reenactments, and actors dressed in period attire. Lunch was enjoyed at historic Central Market, housed in a 130-year-old downtown York building, where attendees sampled made-to-order meals inspired by global flavors. A soap-making experience followed at Sunrise Soap Creation Station. Next, a driving tour of downtown York highlighted the city’s historic charm and vibrant life, including murals and monuments that showcase its rich history and character. The day concluded with dinner and candle-making at Lavender Acres Winery, where a picturesque atmosphere pairs beautifully with an impressive selection of wines.
The following day, the group visited Shear Heaven Farm. Operators fed the friendly alpacas, learned about their luxuriously soft fleece, and completed a fun craft project, creating personalized keepsakes to take home.
The final activity of the FAM, part of Accent Gives Back, was a service project at Lebanon Cemetery—a historic African American burial ground preserving the legacy of York County’s Black community. The group assisted with grounds care and headstone restoration.
Save the dates below. Future Accent Travel Conference dates are as follows:
- 4th Annual Accent West – May 13-16, 2026 – Medora ND
- 7th Annual Accent East – November 7-11, 2026 – South Bend IN
- 5th Annual Accent West – April 23-27, 2027 – Joplin MO
- 8th Annual Accent East – October 13-17, 2027 – Waterloo Ontario Canada
Registration information is available online at www.accenttravelnetwork.com For more information, contact Sue Arko at sue@takeafuntrip.com or call 602-999-5749.
