‘We’re just so proud’: Cherry Blossom Festival Marketing Director after economic impact reveal

Festival staff say the Macon event is about pride, partnership and unforgettable experiences.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The 2025 Pinkest Party on Earth may be over, but its economic impact on the community lives on.

The Cherry Blossom Festival, via Visit Macon, revealed impact totals on Wednesday, reporting a massive economic impact of $6.5 million, surpassing last year’s figures. This year’s festival attracted more than 200,000 unique visitors, which is a 7.2% increase compared to the previous year.

Hannah Theus, the Director of Marketing and Fulfillment for Macon’s International Cherry Blossom Festival, says the community impact is what makes the festival unforgettable.

“We’re just so proud, because we know that it’s a testament to what we tried to produce with these world class events year-round,” she said. “We’re working daily just to bring great events to Macon-Bibb County. We’re really proud because it just brings community pride and it also helps our local businesses, which is the best of both worlds for us.”

According to the numbers, local businesses were positively impacted this year, with more than 52% of out-of-state visitors choosing to stay in town for more than two days. Around 35% of the total spending during the festival came from out-of-town visitors.

International exposure has played a crucial role in the festival’s growth. This year saw more than 41,000 visitors traveling from more than 50 miles away, with a noteworthy 34% coming from outside Georgia.

“We’re always trying to bring in more bands and more floats and things that bring the community together,” Theus said.  “Whether they’re going to come down to Carolyn Crayton Park and get a funnel cake or they’re gonna come to the parade and watch their favorite family member in the band, we just want to make it a magical experience for people.”

The 43rd Cherry Blossom Festival is set for March 20-29, 2026.