Virginia aims to attract over two million visitors and stimulate local economies with state financial help
Richmond, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the distribution of nearly $812,000 in matching funding to assist 81 special events and festivals across Virginia in 2025 in an attempt to increase tourism and stimulate economic development. Leveraging a sizeable $5.62 million in combined private-public sector investments, this initiative, run under the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s (VTC) Special Events & Festivals Sponsorship Program (SEF) seeks to improve visitor experiences and boost overnight stays.
The funds will support a wide range of events, therefore influencing a total of 324 Virginia tourism and hospitality sector partners. Designed to attract guests from within and outside the state, these events range from cultural celebrations and music performances to gourmet fairs and craft displays, therefore promoting a greater respect of Virginia’s rich cultural tapestry.
“Special events and festivals are vital to Virginia’s thriving visitor economy, supporting our musicians, artisans, hotels, and restaurants. This year’s grant recipients have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to growing their event footprint, increasing visitation, and enhancing the visitor experience in 2025,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin in a press release.
“By leveraging these funds, we aim to attract even more visitors, showcase the unique charm of our communities, and reinforce Virginia’s reputation as a premier destination for memorable events and festivals.”
Under a unique approach, the SEF program distributes sponsored events around the state by allocating up to 20% of the available funding to every Go Virginia region. This approach helps to create multi-day plans that inspire guests to explore outside of the event itself by interacting with local major streets, boutiques, unusual food alternatives, and historic locations.
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Projecting attendance numbers to surpass two million visitors in 2025, Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick highlighted the expected impact of these programs.
“These special events and festivals are scheduled throughout 2025 and will help support the hospitality workforce at all career levels by inducing tourism demand and increasing overnight visitation,” Merrick said.
With further funding and sponsorship cycles scheduled for 2025, VTC intends to keep helping Virginia’s festival sector grow. Visit vatc.org/grants to learn more about how interested companies and groups should apply.
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Virginians and out-of-state visitors are invited to schedule their trips utilizing tools accessible at virginia.org as preparations for these events are under way. This portal promises interesting possibilities for adventure and cultural enrichment in the next year since it not only offers travel planning tools but also a peek of the great spectrum of activities and experiences accessible at these sponsored events.
A full list of funding recipients for this grant round can be found here.
