Over the coming years, the Keystone State is set to become a hub of major sporting activities. From baseball to golf, skating to ice hockey, and cycling, the state is gearing up to host a series of prestigious events. In 2026 alone, Philadelphia will play host to the Major League Baseball All-Star game, adding to the state's already impressive sporting calendar.

Attracting Millions with Grant Money

Last week, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development made a significant announcement. They awarded $5 million in grant money to 11 major sporting events across the Commonwealth through the state's Sports Marketing and Tourism Program. This investment is expected to bring an estimated $240.2 million into Pennsylvania's economy. The program was specifically created to attract high-quality, amateur, and professional sporting and e-sports events to the state.

Allegheny County: The 2025 Men's U.S. Open

In Allegheny County, $1 million was granted to the United States Golf Association in support of the 2025 Men's U.S. Open. This event is set to attract golf enthusiasts from all over the world and showcase the best of golfing in the Keystone State. The lush greens and challenging courses of Allegheny County will provide a perfect backdrop for this prestigious tournament.The United States Golf Association has a long history of hosting world-class golf events, and the 2025 Men's U.S. Open is set to be no exception. It will bring together the top golfers from around the globe and provide a thrilling spectacle for fans. This event will not only boost the local economy but also enhance Pennsylvania's reputation as a sports destination.

Centre County: The 2024 Ironman 70.3 Triathlon Series

Centre County received $93,055 in support of the 2024 Ironman 70.3 Triathlon Series. This event combines the challenges of swimming, cycling, and running, attracting athletes and spectators alike. The beautiful landscapes of Centre County will provide a scenic backdrop for this intense triathlon.The Ironman 70.3 Triathlon Series is known for its high level of competition and endurance. Athletes from all over the country will converge in Centre County to test their skills and push themselves to the limit. This event will not only showcase the athleticism of the participants but also promote healthy living and an active lifestyle.

Dauphin County: The 2025 Eastern Sectional Synchronized Skating Championship

Dauphin County was awarded $76,945 in support of the 2025 Eastern Sectional Synchronized Skating Championship. Synchronized skating is a beautiful and elegant sport that requires precision and teamwork. The Hershey Figure Skating Club will bring their A-game to Dauphin County and put on a show for the spectators.The Eastern Sectional Synchronized Skating Championship is a highly anticipated event that attracts skaters from across the region. It showcases the talent and artistry of synchronized skating and provides a platform for skaters to compete at a high level. This event will add a touch of grace and elegance to Dauphin County's sporting calendar.

Delaware County: The 2026 PGA Championship

Delaware County received $900,000 in support of the 2026 PGA Championship. The PGA Championship is one of the four major championships in golf and is known for its high level of competition and prestige. The PGA of America will bring this prestigious event to Delaware County, attracting golf fans from all over the country.The PGA Championship is a must-see event for golf enthusiasts. It showcases the best of golfing and provides a thrilling experience for spectators. Delaware County will be transformed into a golfing paradise as the best players in the world compete for the title. This event will have a significant impact on the local economy and put Delaware County on the map as a sports destination.

Erie County: The 2024 Major League Fishing Tournament

Erie County was awarded $45,000 in support of the 2024 Major League Fishing tournament, which was held in August. Fishing is a popular sport in Pennsylvania, and this tournament will attract anglers from all over the state. The Erie Area Convention & Visitors Bureau will ensure that the tournament is a success and provides a memorable experience for the participants.The Major League Fishing tournament is a unique and exciting event that combines the thrill of fishing with the excitement of competition. It showcases the natural beauty of Erie County and provides an opportunity for anglers to test their skills against the best. This event will not only boost the local economy but also promote fishing as a sport in Pennsylvania.

Lehigh County: The 2025 Savannah Bananas and NCAA Men's Ice Hockey Regionals

Lehigh County received $25,000 in support of the 2025 three-night appearance by the Savannah Bananas and $80,000 in support of the 2025 NCAA Men's Ice Hockey Regionals. The Savannah Bananas bring a unique and entertaining style of baseball, while the NCAA Men's Ice Hockey Regionals are a highly competitive event.The Savannah Bananas have gained a reputation for their high-energy performances and fan engagement. Their appearance in Lehigh County will be a treat for baseball fans and a boost to the local economy. The NCAA Men's Ice Hockey Regionals will showcase the best of college hockey and provide a thrilling experience for fans.

Lycoming County: The 2025 Little League World Series and Major League Baseball Draft Game

Lycoming County was awarded $750,000 in support of the 2025 Little League World Series and Major League Baseball Draft Game. The Little League World Series is a beloved event that brings together young baseball players from around the world. The Major League Baseball Draft Game will provide an opportunity for teams to select the next generation of baseball stars.The Little League World Series is a dream come true for young baseball players and their families. It showcases the talent and passion of youth baseball and provides a platform for players to showcase their skills. The Major League Baseball Draft Game will add an extra level of excitement to Lycoming County's sporting calendar.

Monroe County: The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series

Monroe County received $250,000 in support of the NASCAR Cup Series, which was held in July. NASCAR is a popular sport in Pennsylvania, and this event will attract racing fans from all over the state. The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau will ensure that the NASCAR Cup Series is a memorable experience for the participants and spectators.The NASCAR Cup Series is known for its high-speed action and intense competition. The Pocono Mountains provide a perfect backdrop for this exciting event, and fans will be treated to a thrilling weekend of racing. This event will not only boost the local economy but also promote NASCAR as a sport in Pennsylvania.

Montgomery County: The 2024 US Cycling Ardmore Rock-n-Ride Bicycle Race and Music Festival

Montgomery County was awarded $30,000 in support of the 2024 US Cycling Ardmore Rock-n-Ride Bicycle Race and Music Festival. Cycling is a growing sport in Pennsylvania, and this event will attract cyclists from all over the state. The Narberth Ambulance Volunteer Medical Service Corps will sponsor this event and ensure the safety of the participants.The US Cycling Ardmore Rock-n-Ride Bicycle Race and Music Festival is a unique event that combines the thrill of cycling with the fun of a music festival. It provides a platform for cyclists to showcase their skills and enjoy a weekend of cycling and music. This event will promote cycling as a sport and add a touch of excitement to Montgomery County's sporting calendar.