Article Body
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota is one of only 12 states in America that has just one area code. The Department of Tourism is capitalizing on this by celebrating what is called ‘605 Day’ on June 5, 2016 (6/05) and is asking residents and visitors alike to join in the celebration.
“South Dakota is known for many unique qualities, and having one area code to unite residents around is a rallying point. East to west, north to south, residents have a common bond over the ‘605,’ which is being used in conversation and marketing more and more in recent years,” states James Hagen, Secretary of the Department of Tourism. “It’s time to share that rallying cry - our culture and beautiful places in which we stand proudly - with the world; promoting 605 Day is a great way to do so.”
The Department of Tourism is encouraging visitor industry partners from across the state to participate in the celebration as well. The Department has sent Snapchat filters to businesses and organizations, encouraging them to use the filters in their geographic areas. Users of Snapchat in those geographic areas will have the option to choose a 605 Day filter for their photos that they share with their friends on the platform.
The hashtag #605Day will be used on other social media channels, collecting and displaying the content for all users to see and be inspired by. South Dakotans are encouraged to be tourists in their own backyards this summer season, exploring the world famous attractions in the 605 that receive national and worldwide recognition.
The Department of Tourism will be sending out unique tweets and Facebook posts throughout the day including GIFS that will be highly shareable for social media users. GIFS will represent South Dakota “taking over” large cities across the United States. The Department will sponsor the posts in those cities to create awareness and interest in traveling to South Dakota.
“Unique, shareable content drives massive engagement from our social media following. The ability to inspire people to travel to South Dakota because of social media’s influence has proven successful for the Department,” stated Hagen.
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is comprised of Tourism and the South Dakota Arts Council. The Department is led by Secretary James D. Hagen.
-30-
MEDIA NOTES:
Link to the Snapchat filters available to upload to Snapchat are here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/9qp9luselj7n7j7/AACcyK8PgmYqYp3Kj4GoQtrda?dl=0