Monroe County increases funding for community festivals in 2025, allocating $350,000 to support events that promote local culture, historic milestones, and artistic performances, application deadline on April 4

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County Executive Adam Bello has officially opened the application process for the 2025 Community Festival Funding, marking the fourth consecutive year the county has allocated financial support to local festivals and cultural events. With a significant increase in funding from previous years, the county has set aside at least $350,000 in the 2025 budget, up $100,000 from 2024. Organizers looking to secure funding must submit their applications by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025.

Bello emphasized the importance of festivals in bringing people together, celebrating the county’s rich cultural traditions, and promoting local and national talent. He expressed pride in the county’s continued investment in these events, stating that the additional funding would help make the 2025 festival season the most vibrant yet. Monroe County’s diverse festival landscape includes celebrations of historic milestones, artistic performances, and patriotic observances, all of which contribute to the area’s unique identity.

To qualify for funding, festivals must meet several criteria. Eligible events must align with at least one of four categories: commemorating historic or patriotic occasions, showcasing arts and performance, publicizing the benefits of Monroe County, or celebrating significant historical events.

Additionally, events must be held within county limits, provide a free public component, and attract at least 1,000 attendees. Organizers must also provide proof of insurance, including general liability and workers’ compensation coverage, in order to receive county support.

For those interested in learning more about the application process, the county will host a virtual informational webinar on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. This session aims to help festival organizers navigate the funding application and clarify eligibility requirements. Registration for the webinar, along with a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions, is available on the county’s official website at monroecounty.gov/festivalfunding.

With festival season playing such a vital role in community life, the increased funding is expected to bolster the scale and quality of events across Monroe County. Whether honoring historical legacies, fostering artistic expression, or simply bringing residents together in celebration, these festivals serve as a cornerstone of local culture. As the deadline approaches, organizers are encouraged to take full advantage of this opportunity to secure funding and ensure that 2025 is a year to remember for Monroe County’s festivalgoers.

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