Destination Downtown 2026 is an annual regional conference focused on how historic downtowns and neighborhood districts can strengthen communities and drive economic growth.
Destination Downtown 2026 will be held from Wednesday, September 9th through Friday, September 11th at the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge. This event is open to anyone interested in learning about community revitalization and upliftment. Attendees from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas are invited.
“Strong downtowns are the heart of strong communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “When we invest in our historic buildings, support our small businesses, and create places where people want to gather, we are investing in the future of our communities. Destination Downtown gives us an opportunity to bring some of the best and brightest Main Street leaders from across the region together to share what is working and take those ideas back home.”
The three-day conference will feature presentations, interactive breakout sessions, panel discussions, and tours designed to provide practical ideas that communities can put to work immediately. Another regional panel will bring together representatives from the four states' Departments of Transportation to discuss transportation planning, infrastructure projects, and ways communities can work with state transportation agencies to improve downtowns while navigating the complexities of major infrastructure projects.
“Louisiana has a lot we can teach our neighbors, and there's just as much we can learn from them. Bringing these four states together in Baton Rouge gives our Main Street communities a chance to share ideas, solve problems, and leave with tools they can use,” added Lt. Governor Nungesser.
The conference will also feature “Telling Your Downtown Story with Purpose,” led by Lisa Thompson, Senior Program Officer with Main Street America. Participants will learn how effective storytelling can support historic preservation, planning, fundraising, marketing, business recruitment, and investment. The session will give attendees a practical framework for telling their community's story and showing why their downtown matters.
For more information or to register, visit Destination Downtown 2026.
