Bangor reallocates marketing budget to enhance tourism and local events

The Bangor City Council's Budget Workshop on May 7, 2025, focused heavily on the expansion of the city's marketing budget, particularly aimed at boosting tourism. Council members discussed the success of recent marketing initiatives that have targeted local and regional audiences, especially in light of the closure of the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB).

The marketing strategy has shifted to emphasize local capacity building and to attract visitors from nearby urban centers such as New York City and Boston. Recent data indicated that these cities, along with Chicago, are significant sources of traffic to Bangor's tourism website, where potential visitors explore events and attractions.

A notable point of discussion was the decision to reduce marketing efforts in Maritime Canada due to current conditions, redirecting focus instead to Central and Southern Maine. This strategic pivot aligns with findings from the Maine Office of Tourism, which reported growth in tourism from Cumberland County to Penobscot County.

The council highlighted successful campaigns, such as "Celebrate the Holidays in Bangor," which integrated community and economic development funding to promote local events. The campaign utilized print ads and dedicated web pages to showcase attractions, including concerts and festivals, thereby enhancing visibility for local businesses and cultural events.

Looking ahead, the marketing budget will also support digital advertising efforts, including pay-per-click campaigns and streaming ads targeting key markets. Additionally, the city plans to collaborate with regional partners on a branding campaign and invest in data tracking software to better understand visitor demographics and preferences.

Overall, the meeting underscored Bangor's commitment to revitalizing its tourism sector through strategic marketing investments, aiming to position the city as a desirable destination for both local and out-of-state visitors.