The City of Hallettsville has been named a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas after completing the required certification process. This designation recognizes the work of the Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture/Visitor Center in developing tourism as a strategy for economic growth, supporting job creation, and attracting visitors to both Hallettsville and the state.
Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the impact of tourism on Texas, stating, “Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies. Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. I congratulate the City of Hallettsville and the Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture/Visitor Center on earning this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to become a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state.”
Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell commented on Hallettsville’s appeal: “Hallettsville’s deep roots and cultural traditions offer visitors a genuine taste of small-town Texas. From historic sites and polka festivals to local shops and down-home cooking, it’s a place where every visit feels personal. We’re proud to recognize Hallettsville as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community.”
Senator Lois Kolkhorst also praised the city: “Congratulations to Hallettsville on being officially designated a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. This recognition highlights Hallettsville’s commitment to leveraging tourism as a key driver of economic growth and cultural enrichment. Hallettsville’s rich heritage and vibrant community events have long made it a standout destination in Texas. From the Lavaca Historical Museum and the annual Hallettsville Kolache Festival to cherished traditions like the Yule Fest and the Lavaca County Fair, Hallettsville offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and hospitality. The city’s warm community spirit and beautiful landscapes further enhance its appeal to nature enthusiasts and travelers alike. Hats off to Hallettsville for this well-deserved recognition. Your commitment to preserving history, celebrating culture, and warmly welcoming visitors truly embodies the spirit of Texas hospitality.”
Representative AJ Louderback said, “It is an honor to represent Hallettsville, a city that celebrates its deep cultural heritage, embodies southern charm, preserves natural beauty, and is filled with friendly people that define what it means to be Texan. Congratulations on their designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community.”
Hallettsville City Administrator Grace Ward acknowledged those who contributed: “The City of Hallettsville is proud to partner with the Hallettsville Chamber of Commerce to receive the Tourism Friendly Texas Certification, which recognizes Hallettsville’s commitment to creating a welcoming and vibrant experience for all visitors. This designation reflects the hard work of our community, businesses, and residents that promote local heritage, hospitality, and economic growth through tourism. We look forward to continuing to share the charm and character that make Hallettsville a destination worth discovering.”
The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program is open for applications from local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts in their areas. The benefits include strengthening relationships important for tourism development; educating leaders about tourism’s importance; prioritizing locally driven strategies; and learning about opportunities provided by Travel Texas as well as other state government programs supporting communities in travel industry development.
More information about this program can be found at https://gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates under the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with goals that include marketing Texas as a top travel destination outside state borders—aiming both at national audiences within the United States as well as international markets—to increase revenue generation for local communities throughout Texas.
