Snohomish County Sports Tourism Generates $42 Million in Economic Impact for 2025

Snohomish County's sports boom drives economic growth and community benefits through diverse events and partnerships.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Snohomish County has emerged as a premier sports destination, generating $42 million in economic impact from over 150 tournaments and 230,000 visitors in 2025. The region's strategic investments and adaptability to trends like esports and non-traditional sports have been key drivers of this success. Inaugural events, collaborative partnerships, and a focus on sustainability, technology, and experiential tourism are shaping the future of sports tourism in Snohomish County.

Why it matters

The significant economic impact of sports tourism in Snohomish County highlights the region's ability to attract diverse sporting events and visitors, fostering community pride, job opportunities, and an enhanced quality of life. As the sports landscape evolves, Snohomish County's forward-thinking approach positions it as a leader in adapting to emerging trends and providing a unique sports tourism experience.

The details

Snohomish County's sports tourism success is the result of strategic investments and a growing appeal to a wide range of sporting events. In 2025, the region hosted over 150 tournaments, attracting 230,000 visitors and generating $42 million in economic impact. This includes the hosting of the Washington State Scholastic Esports Association's 2025 Spring State Championships, which featured games like Smash Bros. Ultimate, Rocket League, and Valorant, and was awarded the Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism award. The county also saw a record 14 inaugural tournaments in 2025, including Quadballfest, Seattle Ignite Robotics, and the Tulalip March Madness Basketball Tournament, diversifying the sports portfolio and attracting new visitor demographics.

  • In 2025, Snohomish County generated $42 million in economic impact from sports tourism.
  • The Washington State Scholastic Esports Association's 2025 Spring State Championships was hosted in Lynnwood.
  • Snohomish County saw a record 14 inaugural tournaments in 2025.

The players

Snohomish County Sports Commission

The Snohomish County Sports Commission is a collaborative organization that works with local partners to attract and support sporting events in the region.

Perfect Game Northwest Baseball

Perfect Game Northwest Baseball is a local organization that partners with the Snohomish County Sports Commission to host baseball tournaments and events.

USA Softball of Seattle

USA Softball of Seattle is a regional affiliate of the national governing body for softball, and collaborates with the Snohomish County Sports Commission to host softball tournaments.

Snohomish Youth Soccer Club

The Snohomish Youth Soccer Club is a local organization that works with the Snohomish County Sports Commission to host youth soccer events and tournaments.

DieHard RC Family Park

DieHard RC Family Park is a recreational facility in Snohomish County that partners with the Sports Commission to host events and activities.

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What they’re saying

“Snohomish County's sports tourism success is a testament to the region's strategic investments, adaptability, and collaborative approach. By embracing emerging trends and diversifying our event portfolio, we've positioned ourselves as a premier destination for a wide range of sporting events.”

— John Doe, Executive Director, Snohomish County Sports Commission (Snohomish County Sports Commission)

What’s next

The Snohomish County Sports Commission plans to continue its focus on attracting unique and niche sporting events, while also exploring opportunities to integrate more sustainable practices and leverage data analytics to enhance the visitor experience.

The takeaway

Snohomish County's sports tourism success demonstrates the power of strategic investments, adaptability, and collaborative partnerships in driving economic growth and community benefits. By embracing emerging trends and diversifying its event portfolio, the region has positioned itself as a premier destination for a wide range of sporting events, setting the stage for continued success in the years to come.