– Snohomish County experienced a banner year for sports tourism in 2025, generating approximately $42 million in economic impact, according to the Snohomish County Sports Commission. The commission reported supporting over 150 sports tournaments and welcoming more than 230,000 visitors to the region.
The influx of athletes and spectators resulted in nearly 43,000 room nights booked across 12 communities within the county. A record 37 different sports were played, showcasing the county’s versatility as a host destination. The commission functions as a sports marketing organization dedicated to bolstering Snohomish County’s economy and reputation by attracting sporting events of regional, national, and international caliber.
2025 proved to be a particularly successful year, with the county hosting 14 inaugural tournaments. These first-time events included Quadballfest: Seattle, a novel sporting competition. the Ignite Robotics Quantum Spooktacular Competition, highlighting the growing field of robotics; the Tulalip March Madness Basketball Tournament; the Seattle Handball Cup; Nitro Circus’ “Off The Rails” World Tour, a high-octane action sports spectacle; the USA Artistic Swimming Rising Star Camp; and the Battle of the Flags flag football tournament.
The success isn’t simply a matter of attracting new events, but fostering relationships with organizers who return year after year. “Over time, Snohomish County has established itself as a premier sports destination because event organizers are returning to host their event year after year,” the commission stated.
A robust calendar of annual tournaments anchors the county’s sports tourism strategy. These include the Everett 3on3 presented by Boeing, a popular basketball event; the Harvey Cup, a significant soccer tournament; the Lake Stevens Pickleball Classic, reflecting the surging popularity of the sport; Fairfest 3on3 basketball; the Candyland Gymnastics Invitational; the Ice Fest Skating Competition; EnduroCross, a challenging motorcycle competition; and Spartan races, known for their obstacle course challenges.
The commission also collaborates with local organizations to support a consistent stream of sporting activity. Partners include Perfect Game Northwest Baseball, USA Softball of Seattle, the National Softball Association of Washington, the Snohomish Youth Soccer Club, Kayak Point Disc Golf, DieHard RC Family Park, and DYSports LLC. These partnerships ensure a diverse range of sporting opportunities throughout the year.
Recognition for the county’s efforts came in the form of an award for the Washington State Scholastic Esports Association’s 2025 Spring State Championships. The event received the Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism award from Sports Destination Management, acknowledging the growing economic contribution of esports. The competition, hosted for the first time in Snohomish County at the Lynnwood Event Center, featured 32 high school teams competing in Smash Bros. Ultimate, Rocket League, and Valorant, demonstrating the county’s ability to accommodate emerging sports formats.
The success of the esports event underscores a broader trend: the diversification of Snohomish County’s sports portfolio. While traditional sports like baseball, softball, and soccer remain important drivers of tourism, the county is actively embracing new and evolving sporting disciplines, including robotics, handball, and esports. This strategic approach positions Snohomish County to capitalize on emerging trends and attract a wider range of visitors.
The $42 million economic impact represents a significant contribution to the local economy, supporting businesses in the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors. The commission’s efforts not only bring revenue to the county but also enhance its image as a vibrant and welcoming destination for athletes, families, and sports enthusiasts. The continued success of these events will be crucial for sustaining this economic momentum in the years to come.
The ability to host a diverse range of events, from large-scale international competitions to local youth tournaments, is a key strength of Snohomish County. The commission’s focus on building relationships with event organizers and providing high-quality facilities and support services will be essential for maintaining its position as a premier sports destination.
