WHY IT RATES: The news comes just weeks after the 2025 iteration saw nearly 200 attendees from more than 40 states descend on Capitol Hill to advocate for key policies.—Patrick Clarke, TravelPulse Senior Editor
The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) opened registration for Legislative Day 2026, taking place April 20–21, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Each year, travel advisors from across the country gather on Capitol Hill to meet face-to-face with lawmakers and advocate for the policies that protect their businesses and elevate the travel advisor profession. After an impactful week advocating for the travel advisor profession in early October, the momentum continues early next year.
The announcement follows a strong showing in 2025, when 195 attendees from 43 states participated in 165 meetings with congressional offices, including 15 Member-level meetings. Despite the backdrop of a government shutdown, ASTA members demonstrated extraordinary commitment to advocacy, ensuring the profession’s voice remained front and center in key policy discussions.
“Legislative Day continues to grow not just in size, but in impact,” said Jessica Klement, ASTA’s Vice President of Advocacy. “What makes this event powerful is that it gives travel advisors the opportunity to connect their personal business stories to the policies shaping our industry. Every conversation on Capitol Hill helps strengthen the foundation for future success.”
Open exclusively to ASTA members, Legislative Day offers participants a hands-on opportunity to engage directly with their Members of Congress and key staff. Each attendee receives a personalized meeting schedule arranged by ASTA, along with advocacy training designed to help them navigate effective conversations on Capitol Hill. Attendees are supported by an experienced team captain assigned to their state delegation, ensuring they feel confident and prepared throughout the day. The program also provides practical guidance on how to follow up with elected officials after the event, helping members turn meaningful meetings into long-term relationships.
“As a first-time attendee at ASTA Legislative Day, I was thrilled to represent our industry on Capitol Hill,” noted Christy Shafer of 1000 Mile Travel Group. “It truly makes you feel like you're part of something bigger; making a direct impact for the advisors and agencies that are shaping the future of our industry. I'm already looking forward to coming back and doing this again!”
Registration for ASTA Legislative Day 2026 is now open. Because attendance is capped to ensure equitable representation from every state—and spots in high-participation states like New York, Florida, Texas and California fill quickly—early registration is strongly encouraged.
SOURCE: ASTA press release.
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