≡-Happy Valley Tourism Soars to New Heights in the US, Securing Over One Million Dollars in Historic Grants – Viral of Today
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Home » TOURISM NEWS » Happy Valley Tourism Soars to New Heights in the US, Securing Over One Million Dollars in Historic Grants Wednesday, June 11, 2025In a historic move, the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB), in partnership with the Centre County Commissioners, has allocated an unprecedented $1.1 million in tourism grants for the 2025–26 fiscal year. This marks the largest distribution of funding in the program’s history and is aimed at enhancing travel experiences and attracting more visitors to Happy Valley, Pennsylvania. The funding will support 81 innovative projects that range from cultural events to local tourism development initiatives, reflecting a strong commitment to promoting the region’s unique attractions and fostering long-term growth in its tourism industry. With a focus on both new and established initiatives, this funding promises to elevate Happy Valley as a premier travel destination.In an unprecedented move, the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB), in partnership with the Centre County Commissioners, has allocated more than USD 1.1 million in tourism grants for the 2025–26 fiscal year. This marks the largest distribution of funding in the history of the program, designed to fuel 81 innovative projects that aim to enhance travel experiences and boost visitation to Happy Valley, Pennsylvania.The announcement, made at Rolling Rails Lodge in Port Matilda, carried the theme “Tourism in Bloom,” highlighting the importance of nurturing local attractions, cultural events, and hospitality ventures. With the new funding, the HVAB demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and residents of the region.Among the 81 projects receiving support, 11 are from first-time grant recipients, reflecting the region’s growing diversity of cultural and tourism-driven initiatives. Notably, the Happy Valley Latin Festival, which celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, stands out as a key recipient. This event showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Latin community, adding a unique flavor to the region’s calendar of events.Centre County Commissioner Chair, Mark Higgins, expressed his excitement over the program’s continued growth. “It’s thrilling to witness tourism revenue for Centre County surpassing $1 billion and to see our Tourism Grant pool exceed $1 million. These grants serve as an essential tool to elevate the visitor experience and contribute to the enrichment of our community,” he said.The grants will also benefit well-established local institutions like the Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society. The Society received two separate grants to enhance the marketing of its heritage train rides, which are a beloved local attraction, particularly the popular Christmas train rides. These experiences are a staple in the region’s tourism offerings, drawing substantial local and regional participation each year.The HVAB Tourism Grant Program is sustained by revenue generated from the county’s hotel occupancy tax, ensuring that the funds are reinvested in programs that stimulate overnight stays and long-term tourism development. This strategic use of local tax revenue demonstrates the community’s commitment to building a sustainable tourism infrastructure while continuing to support and elevate the region’s rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.This historic funding initiative marks a turning point in Happy Valley’s tourism landscape. With targeted investments in unique, community-driven projects, the program is poised to drive increased visitation to the area, creating more opportunities for local businesses, cultural organizations, and hospitality providers. As the region moves forward, it is clear that these grants will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Happy Valley’s tourism and economic growth.Happy Valley has secured a record $1.1 million in tourism grants for 2025–26, marking a significant milestone in regional growth. This funding will support 81 projects aimed at enhancing travel experiences and boosting visitation to the area.The HVAB’s decision to allocate over USD 1.1 million in tourism funding for fiscal year 2025–26 is a landmark achievement that highlights the growing importance of tourism as an economic driver for Centre County. By funding 81 projects, including first-time applicants and established local initiatives, this historic grant program aims to enhance the region’s attractiveness, encourage more visitors, and build a foundation for sustainable tourism in the years to come.
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