The Oregon Coast is a beautiful place, but most people come in the summer, when rentals are packed, and the weather is hot and dry. The City of Manzanita and the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association (TCVA) want to change that. For the last several years there has been a concerted push to encourage tourists to try shoulder and off-season vacations. This benefits the community in several ways: it increases the daily spend at local businesses during the slowest times of year; decreases the burden of City resources during peak times of years; and hopefully shows visitors another lovely facet of this gem of a community.
In this effort, the TCVA administered a significant off-season tourism grant on behalf of Manzanita for local projects aimed at enhancing the area’s off-season appeal. These grants represent a strategic effort to boost local tourism and community engagement outside of the peak season, diversifying and strengthening the economic and cultural vitality of Manzanita and its surroundings.
Several local organizations were recipients of these grants, each with a unique project contributing to the community’s vibrancy. Centerpoint Healing Arts was awarded $2,000 to fund Manzanita’s second annual World Labyrinth Day in May, an event that promotes mindfulness and community togetherness. The Lower Nehalem Community Trust received $2,000 for a biennial Estuary Clean-up in March and a Migratory Bird Day Celebration in early May, both fostering environmental stewardship and wildlife appreciation. Oregon Beach Ceremonies also received $2,000 to promote off-season elopements and small weddings, tapping into a niche market that could bring new visitors to the area during quieter months.
The Hoffman Center for the Arts was granted $2,000 for new branding and marketing initiatives that reflect their new strategic plan, aiming to enhance their cultural footprint and attract a wider audience. The Winery at Manzanita secured $2,000 for billboard signage, a move to increase visibility and attract more visitors. Yolk Restaurant, aiming to revamp its branding, requested $2,000 and was awarded $1,500 for a new logo, website, and window art. These projects collectively contribute to Manzanita’s reputation as a dynamic and attractive destination year-round, demonstrating the city’s commitment to supporting diverse local businesses and cultural institutions.
Check back for updates when these projects are completed! We’ll follow up with readers at the end of 2024~