Cherry Blossom Festival generates $6.9 million economic impact in Macon, report shows

Visit Macon reports 2026 festival attendance, tourism growth, and hotel occupancy increases

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The 2026 International Cherry Blossom Festival generated an estimated $6.9 million in economic impact, a 6 percent increase from 2025, according to Visit Macon.

Attendance reached 282,004 people, marking a 4.6 percent increase from last year. The report also shows out-of-market visitation rose by 1.1 percent, with 8.7 percent of visits coming from out of state.

“The 2026 festival was beautiful,” marketing director Hannah Theus said. “We had perfect weather, great events and we had a $6.9 million economic impact for the 2026 festival. We are so proud, welcomed over 280,000 people to Macon, so we had a great festival and just a great time for all.”

Visit Macon says there was increased activity across the city. Hotels reported an average occupancy rate of 72.4 percent, while traffic along the Cherry Blossom Trail was 36 percent above normal levels.

“We work year round to bring this festival to Macon and Middle Georgia and so it’s just super gratifying getting to see people come out for the parade, for all the downtown events, come visit us at Carolyn Crayton Park. It’s just so special to now see that it made a positive impact on our downtown and Macon businesses as well,” Theus said.

Organizers say planning for next year is already underway. Until then, they are working on the Veterans Day parade in November.

The 2027 International Cherry Blossom Festival is scheduled from March 19 through March 28.