ECGRA Awards More Than $214,000 To Support Erie County Special Events
At a press conference at the historic Warner Theater today, the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) announced $214,121 in Special Events Grant funding to support 50 organizations and over 150 events throughout Erie County, helping strengthen communities, attract visitors, and enhance quality of place.
Special events promote a sense of community and inclusiveness and often generate an influx of dollars from outside Erie County, resulting in local economic growth and improved quality of place for Erie residents. As part of a strategy to strengthen the economy, special events help increase Erie's ability to attract and retain a skilled workforce, spur investments from the private sector, stabilize land and housing prices, all while increasing civic pride.
"We're investing in the heart and soul of Erie," said ECGRA Executive Director Perry Wood. "These events create experiences that bring people together, strengthen our communities, attract visitors, and build the memories that make Erie a great place to live."
"Celebrate Erie and A 250 Celebration: Lights & Liberty on the Lake are two of our summer events that bring people of all ages and backgrounds together to showcase the uniqueness of our special city," said Hunter Lytle, Executive Director of Cultures, Arts, Festivals, and Events of Erie (CAFE). "CAFE is committed to creating memorable experiences that celebrate Erie's cultural and community spirit, and we are grateful to ECGRA for their continued investment, which helps make events like this possible."
ECGRA Special Events Grants fund up to 5% of events that take place within Erie County, are open to the general public, and promote the region economically and culturally. Applicants must be a 501(c)3 organization, municipality, or authority headquartered in Erie County. Grantees must demonstrate how their event(s) creates a targeted economic impact on Erie County by attracting attendance to the region and impacting local quality of place.
"Special events are often the moments when residents and visitors experience the very best in Erie County. From county fairs and cultural festivals to concerts, sporting events, and neighborhood celebrations, these gatherings create lasting memories, strengthen community connections, and support local businesses and nonprofits. ECGRA's investment in these events helps organizations turn great ideas into successful experiences that drive economic activity, attract tourism, and build community pride. This year's award recipients demonstrate the breadth and diversity of events that make Erie County a vibrant place to live, work, and visit year-round," said Erie County Councilman Jim Wertz.
"The 141st Annual Erie County Fair remains a cherished tradition that connects generations through agriculture, entertainment, and community. ECGRA's support helps us enhance the fair experience while preserving an event that has been an important part of Erie County's heritage for over a century," said Corrie Boyd, State Director, Pennsylvania State Assocaition of County Fairs.
"The 81st annual Albion Area Fair is proud to celebrate the agricultural traditions and community spirit that define our region. ECGRA's continued investment helps us improve the fair each year and ensures this longstanding tradition remains strong for future generations," said President, Albion State Fair, Randy Hites.
To view the list of organizations receiving funding in 2026, click here.
