Tourism officials recommend $2.7 million for local events
July 28, 2025 - Visit St. Pete-Clearwater staff have recommended that Pinellas County Commissioners allocate $2.7 million to 49 events that support tourism in fiscal year 2026. Tourism officials administer the awards through the Elite Event and Destination Enhancement Funding Program. Top-tier events include the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg and the Valspar Championship, which, if approved by commissioners, will each receive $250,000. Events in the fifth and final category, such as the SHINE St. Petersburg Mural Festival, receive between $ 15,000 and $25,000.