FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Cherry Blossom Festival is proud to announce the stellar economic impact of the 2025 Festival, which took place March 21-30, 2025. Our outstanding partners at Visit Macon have compiled research for the Festival, highlighting its continued growth and significant contributions to our local economy and community.
According to Visit Macon, key insights from the 2025 Festival included:
– Economic Impact: The festival generated an impressive $6.5 million, showcasing its role as a major economic stimulus for Macon.
– Visitor Growth: We welcomed 201,027 unique visitors, reflecting a commendable 7.2% increase compared to last year, indicating sustained interest and expanding appeal.
– Spending Patterns: Invaluable to our local businesses, 35.1% of total spending emanated from out-of-town visitors, demonstrating the event’s draw for non-residents.
– Regional Attraction: The festival attracted 41,287 visitors from over 50 miles away, further establishing Macon’s reputation as a significant travel destination.
– Out-of-State Visitors: A notable 34.1% of attendees traveled from states beyond Georgia, underscoring the festival’s national allure.
“This data highlights how Macon’s tourism industry and the Cherry Blossom Festival not only drives economic growth, but fosters cultural exchange and community pride. The ongoing enhancement of the festival is a collaborative achievement, supported by our community, local businesses, and visitors alike.” says President & CEO of Visit Macon, Gary Wheat.
“As we prepare for future festivals, our aim remains steadfast: to offer an exceptional experience for everyone, encouraging visitors to return to Macon year after year,” he added.
The remarkable growth of the International Cherry Blossom Festival over the past nine years is a true reflection of the visionary leadership of President and CEO Stacy Moore. This success has been made possible through the unwavering support of our valued sponsors, the dedication of our staff, and the commitment of our Festival board—guided by Festival Chair Kenna Scragg and Board Chair Karla Redding-Andrews. We are also deeply grateful to our partners at Visit Macon and the Macon-Bibb County government for their exceptional support in celebrating Macon as the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World.
“We were thrilled to share the ‘Pinkest Party on Earth’ with our Macon-Bibb community and to welcome visitors from near and far,” says Moore. “The continued increase in attendance from individuals traveling more than 50 miles to join us is a strong testament to the Festival’s growing impact—not only locally, but across the region and the state. We are proud of this accomplishment and excited to build on our success with world-class programming and unforgettable experiences for the entire family.”
About the Cherry Blossom Festival:
Founded by Carolyn Crayton in 1982, the Cherry Blossom Festival through its diverse programming and events enhances sense of place, quality of life, community fellowship, and civic pride of all Macon and Middle Georgia residents. The Festival achieves this through economic impact, veterans support, educational opportunities, showcasing local organizations and artists, and community coordination of recreational, cultural, and social activities.
The 2026 Festival will take place March 20-29, 2026. For programming and more information visit https://cherryblossom.com
For interview requests from Visit Macon, please contact Marisa Rodgers at mrodgers@visitmacon.org
For Festival questions, please contact Hannah Theus at htheus@cherryblossom.com
