Westchester County Tourism & Film has been awarded a $250,000 grant through Empire State Development’s Market New York program to support the creation of the Rooted in Westchester initiative for the 2026 anniversary of the country’s independence. Westchester County has committed to a 50% match, and the tourism effort will be a County-led complement to national and state-wide engagements like America 250 and the New York State 250th American Revolution Commemoration Commission, all working to engage every American in the 250th anniversary of the United States. This funding will help highlight the County’s rich and authentic history and heritage, highlighting its integral role in the American Revolution.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “This investment into our region will help us continue to grow significantly in many ways, ensuring that Westchester is seen not only as a destination for modern attractions but also as a place where history lives on. We are proud to be part of this transformative project and look forward to welcoming visitors and residents, alike to experience the living legacy of Westchester’s pivotal role in America’s founding.”
The grant funding will support two immersive, two-day events in 2025 and 2026 at select Westchester County Parks, showcasing the pivotal roles of Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, and New York State in the Revolutionary War. These events will celebrate the region’s rich heritage, foster learning and engagement among residents, and strengthen the County’s tourism marketing efforts to attract business and leisure travelers during the national commemoration. Additionally, the funding will enable the creation of dynamic website content to educate visitors about Westchester’s history and heritage—key areas of interest identified in tourism recovery research by the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
Director of & Film Natasha Caputo said: “As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, we are excited to offer new ways for travelers and locals to connect with history and explore the beauty of Westchester. The mission is to create programming that can continue well beyond 2026, creating lasting impact for our community.”
Rooted in Westchester will be organized in coordination with key partners, including Westchester-based historical organizations, local committees, and Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250), a local nonprofit organization whose ongoing efforts commemorate Westchester’s important part in the Revolutionary War.
The grant announcement coincides with broader plans to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in 2026. Westchester County Tourism & Film will work alongside RW250, historic organizations and key local thought leaders on a series of regional events and activities fit for the occasion.
RW250 President Constance Kehoe said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Westchester County Tourism & Film on programs that bring the history of the American Revolution to life in Westchester. This grant will allow us to greatly expand our current initiatives and create lifelong memories of the 250th Commemoration for residents and visitors. We look forward to a continued partnership highlighting our region’s rich and diverse heritage.”
The Market New York program is part of New York State’s Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) initiative, with funding awarded by Empire State Development I LOVE NY. The program is designed to support marketing initiatives that promote tourism destinations, attractions, special events, and capital improvement projects for tourism facilities. It also covers projects that involve hosting, coordinating, and executing new special events in New York State, as well as promoting agritourism and craft beverage tourism.
Additionally, the initiative is a part of a larger effort to revitalize travel to the region while supporting local businesses and fostering economic recovery post COVID-19. Regional sites, attractions, local and state parks, along with local businesses will all play a role in this initiative – supporting jobs and economic prosperity for Westchester County.
