COUNTY EXECUTIVE BELLO ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF 2026 COMMUNITY FESTIVAL APPLICATION PROCESS

ROCHESTER, NY — Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today announced the opening of the online application portal for 2026 Community Festival Funding. This is the fifth year Monroe County has set aside funding for community festivals. Last year, Monroe County provided more than $400,000 to 43 local events through the Community Festival Support Program.

The application deadline for community festivals that will take place this year is 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026. Details are available at monroecounty.gov/festivalfunding.

“Festivals and events are part of the fabric of life in Monroe County. Our local festivals bring people together to celebrate historic occasions, recognize the traditions of our diverse cultures, and highlight local and national talent,” said Monroe County Executive Adam J. Bello. “Festivals improve the quality of life for Monroe County residents, and I’m proud that we have increased the funding available this year to make this festival season the best ever.”

Festivals and events must meet a set of basic qualifications to be considered for support. These

requirements include:

• Festivals must fit into one or more of the following categories: (1) an armistice, memorial, or other recognized national patriotic observance; (2) an event that commemorates historical events of countywide interest and concern; (3) an event that showcase music, dance, arts, or other artistic performance; and/or (4)an event that publicizes the advantages of Monroe County.

• Festivals must have a free public component that is accessible to all attendees.

• Festivals must serve a minimum of 1,000 individuals in person.

• Festivals must take place in Monroe County between January 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026 and must be in existence for a minimum period of one (1) year prior.

• Festivals must provide proof of insurance (general liability, automobile liability, workers compensation, disability benefits and paid family leave benefits) to be able to receive county funding.

A virtual webinar for individuals interested in learning more about the Community Festival Funding application will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. To register to attend this event, and review a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and eligibility criteria, please go to monroecounty.gov/festivalfunding.