Hawaii Joins Virginia, Texas, Florida, Maryland, Minnesota in Supercharging US Tourism ...

This comprehensive report by Tuhin Sarkar examines how Hawaii and five other US states are revolutionizing domestic tourism through strategic investments in sports and cultural events. The analysis reveals a coordinated effort to boost local economies while preserving cultural heritage and authentic community experiences.

Hawaii leads this tourism transformation with a $1.9 million investment through its Signature Events programme, funding 21 major festivals and sports competitions from July 2025 to June 2026. The initiative showcases iconic events like the 79th Aloha Festivals, Merrie Monarch hula celebration, and Honolulu Marathon, each designed to attract global visitors while strengthening local cultural identity and community engagement.

• Virginia launches a new Sports Tourism Grant Programme to attract national tournaments and championships
• Texas leverages Event Trust Funds for major competitions while exploring hotel occupancy tax funding for venue upgrades
• Florida enhances its Sports Foundation grants and event bidding capabilities for year-round sports tourism
• Maryland backs both youth sports development and major championship events through dual funding programmes