County Tourism Director Ann Marie Maher says it starts with bringing more travel sports teams to the region.
“Our location is perfect because we’re right in the middle of the East Coast,” Maher said. “According to the Sports Travel and Events Association, 52% of all sports tourism happens in the southeastern region of the U.S.”
- The high percentage is attributed to the region’s temperate climate.
- Sports tourism is an $11.4 billion industry in the U.S.
“…If we could just get a piece of that, you know what would it mean to Prince William County residents?” Maher asked.
- It would mean more businesses for hotels and restaurants.
- Reduced travel to sporting events for area residents who already travel long distances to compete.
In order to help bring more sports tourism tournaments here, the county has added a full-time position that will focus on ensuring these events are held in the county – events such as the Tough Mudder run that was held in June at Silver Lake Park.
- The Tough Mudder run was not without controversy, but Maher holds that the event was positive for the county.
- The economic impact was $1.4 million for county businesses.
“It really put us on the map,” said Maher.
It was also a boon to Silver Lake Park. “We had many residents who came out and said I didn’t even know this park existed,” Maher added.
Travel sports facilities are often nothing more than large open tracts of land converted into fields.
- The ounty has a lot of already existing infrastructure they can utilize for such facilities, as well as plenty of opportunity for economic development because the county is still growing.
- Maher said this doesn’t mean they would want to use the Rural Crescent — an area of rural land between Quantico Marine Corps Base and Manassas National Battlefiled.
- The goal is to “create new economic development opportunities that preserve open space and preserve the rural area,” said Maher.
“We have 60 parks. We have one hundred and fifty-five miles of trails- there’s just so much available that’s really under-utilized in a lot of ways.” Maher said.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
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