Nyack, NY – The Village of Nyack is set to distribute more than $50,000 in tourism grants to support a diverse array of local events throughout 2025. At this Thursday’s Village Board meeting, officials will review the proposed grants, which aim to enhance the community’s cultural and economic vitality by funding events hosted by local organizations.
The tourism grants, funded by the village’s hotel occupancy tax, will support a variety of events, including festivals, performances, art exhibitions, and historical tours. The hotel tax, implemented several years ago, allocates half of its revenue to general village funds and the other half to bolster local tourism initiatives, ensuring that no property tax dollars are used for these grants.
The organizations and events slated to receive funding include:
- ArtsRock: Supporting events throughout the year.
- Ecstatic Dance Event Series: Monthly gatherings promoting dance and wellness.
- Hopper House Plein Air Festival: An outdoor painting festival scheduled for October.
- Elmwood Playhouse: Year-round performances showcasing local theater talent.
- Historical Society of Nyack: “Historic House Tour” event planned for May.
- Second Hand Shop Hops: Ongoing events encouraging local shopping.
- Maureen Jazz Cellar: “Dancing in the Streets” in May and a “Jazz Festival” in September.
- Modern Druid: Hosting the “Spirit of South Broadway” Halloween event in October.
- Music for Life: Organizing the “Night Out” events in March and November.
- Nyack International Film Festival: Bringing films and filmmakers to Nyack in March and April.
- Nyack Art Collective: Presenting “First Fridays” art events each month.
- Phoenix Festival: Theater event planned for October.
- Rockland County Jazz and Blues Society: Hosting “Nyack Jazz Week” in September.
- Rockland Pride Center: Supporting a range of community events throughout the year.
- The Angel Nyack: “Ukuleles on the Hudson” event in May.
- Trade + Prosper: Presenting the “Nyack Village Craft Walk” in October.
Village of Nyack Mayor Joseph Rand expressed enthusiasm for the community’s engagement and the wide range of cultural offerings that the grants will support.
The grant application process, managed by Visit Nyack and reviewed by the Nyack Business Council, ensures that funds are allocated to projects that align with the village’s goals of promoting tourism and economic development. Since the program’s inception, Nyack has distributed over $150,000 in tourism grants, benefiting community groups and local businesses.
The announcement highlights Nyack’s ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant community with diverse cultural events and attractions. Residents and visitors can look forward to a year filled with music, art, theater, and history, contributing to Nyack’s reputation as a thriving cultural hub in the Hudson Valley.