Around 72.2 million Americans are projected to travel this weekend to celebrate the country’s 249th birthday, as reported by AAA. In Southwestern Pennsylvania, towns are preparing for a vibrant holiday, hoping that tourists will provide an economic uplift.
“(Tourism is) a major factor for the community. It contributes significantly to the economy – people filling up their gas tanks, dining at restaurants, and shopping locally. It adds substantial value to our area,” stated Eric Knopsnyder, director of public relations and community outreach for the tourism agency GO Laurel Highlands.
As the country prepares for what analysts predict will be a record-setting holiday weekend for domestic travel, local authorities expect a surge in visitors, which should benefit local businesses.
“Following Memorial Day’s record projections, AAA is witnessing strong demand for road trips and air travel during Independence Day week,” said Stacey Barber, AAA Travel’s vice president, in a statement. “With the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of extending it into a long weekend or taking the entire week to create memories with loved ones.”
Jeff Kotula, president of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and tourism promotion agency, noted that Fourth of July tourism significantly contributes to revenue.
“Tourism in Washington County is nearly a $700 million industry and supports over 53,000 jobs,” Kotula explained. “It’s one of our key sectors in the county, and holiday tourism is especially crucial because it draws people not only to the county but also brings back those who originally hailed from here.”
Washington County, known for hosting the second largest Fourth of July parade in the state, attracts approximately 40,000 attendees, according to Kotula.
While there is optimism that this year’s parade might set new attendance records, Kotula emphasized the importance of remembering the true significance of Independence Day.
“It’s a unique holiday,” he remarked. “It’s also a chance to appreciate what’s happening in your neighborhood, town, and county. We have numerous attractions that people can come to enjoy…(it’s) a way to take your family and friends and explore the rich heritage of Washington County.”
In 2024, tourism generated about $2 billion in Fayette, Westmoreland, and Somerset counties, according to Knopsnyder. Despite being smaller than its neighboring counties, Greene County shouldn’t be overlooked, said JoAnne Marshall, the county’s tourism director.
“Many small businesses experience an increase in spending from outside visitors during the holiday,” Marshall noted.
In addition to the Waynesburg Lions Club fireworks and events, Greene County will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Rices Landing Riverfest, featuring a concert and fireworks on July 4.
Marshall mentioned that last year, visitors from other regions spent approximately $30.6 million in Greene County.
Those traveling by car to their destinations may find some relief at gas stations. AAA anticipates fuel prices will decrease by about 4 cents this week. While this might not seem significant, it’s 25 cents less expensive compared to the previous year.
Although local spots might be more crowded than usual, both Knopsnyder and Kotula view this as a positive development.
“We hope it doesn’t cause any problems and encourages people to consider the positive impact on the region,” Knopsnyder said.
Kotula also encouraged visitors to show kindness to hospitality workers during the holiday weekend.
“They’re working during this holiday weekend while others aren’t, so please be patient with (them),” he advised.
— news from Observer-Reporter
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Local leaders hope Independence Day brings economic fireworks
An estimated 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel this weekend to celebrate America’s 249th birthday, according to AAA, and across Southwestern Pennsylvania, communities are gearing up for a lively holiday, hoping visitors will bring an economic boost.
“(Tourism is) a huge thing for the community. It brings in so much for the economy – people filling up their gas tanks, visiting restaurants, and spending money in local shops. It really adds a lot of value to our region,” said Eric Knopsnyder, director of public relations and community outreach for the tourism agency GO Laurel Highlands.
As the nation gears up for what experts expect to be a record-breaking holiday weekend for domestic travel, local officials anticipate a surge of visitors that will leave local businesses seeing red, white, blue…and green.
“Following Memorial Day’s record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week,” Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, said in a release. “With the holiday falling on a Friday, travelers have the option of making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends.”
Jeff Kotula, president of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and tourism promotion agency, said Fourth of July tourism is a major revenue generator.
“Tourism in Washington County is nearly a $700 million business and employs over 53,000 people,” Kotula said. “It’s one of our major industries in the county, and holiday tourism is especially important because it is not only attracting people to the county but it’s also bringing people who were originally from here back home.”
Washington County, known for hosting the second largest fourth of July parade in the state, brings in an estimated 40,000 people, Kotula said.
And while there is reason to believe this year’s parade could potentially break attendance records, Kotula said it’s important to remember the real meaning for Independence day.
“It’s a special holiday,” he said. “It’s also a time to enjoy what is going on in your neighborhood, your town and your county. We have so many things that people can come to enjoy…(I)t’s a way to take your family friends and explore the great heritage of Washington county.”
Over the course of 2024, Knopsnyder said tourism brought around $2 billion in Fayette, Westmoreland and Somerset counties. And while Greene County is smaller than neighboring counterparts, that doesn’t mean it’s forgotten, said JoAnne Marshall, tourism director for the county.
“Many small businesses see a boost in outside spending during the holiday,” Marshall said.
Along with the Waynesburg Lions Club fireworks and events, Greene County will also celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Rices Landing Riverfest, which will include a concert and fireworks on July 4.
Marshall said last year out-of-market visitors spent around $30.6 million in Greene county.
Those driving to their holiday travel destinations are likely to get a little relief at the pump. AAA projected fuel prices will drop about 4 cents this week. While that might not seem like a lot, that’s 25 cents cheaper than it was last year.
While local spots might be a little more crowded than usual, Knopsnyder and Kotula both said that’s a good thing.
“We hope it doesn’t cause any issues and encourages people to think about the positive effect on the region,” Knopsnyder said. “Economic impact helps everyone.”
Kotula also urged visitors to be kind to hospitality workers over the holiday weekend.
“They’re working on this holiday weekend while others are not, so please be patient with (them),” he said.