VA Governor announces matching grants for events and festivals

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced on Thursday that 81 special events and festivals will receive public-private marketing funds to boost visitation in 2025. As part of the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s Special Events & Festivals Sponsorship Program, more than $800,000 in matching grant funds will be awarded to 81 events and festivals. According to the Governors office, the program will generate more than $5.6 million in marketing and event production initiatives and support 324 tourism-based businesses and partners. Virginia Highlands Festival, Bristol’s Rhythm & Roots Reunion, and Clinch River Days are just some of the events to receive funding.