GO Outside Festival Drives Regional Growth and Highlights Roanoke’s Outdoor Economy

A crowd of people sit in an outdoor amphitheater, Elmwood Park, at night as they watch the MountainFilm Festival at Roanoke GO Outside Festival
Roanoke GO Fest attendees enjoy the MountainFilm Festival on opening night of Roanoke GO Fest 2024

The 2024 Anthem GO Outside Festival (GO Fest) was a milestone for Roanoke, drawing 44,000 attendees, strengthening the region’s appeal for talent and business investment, and contributing an estimated $3 million to the local economy. With a mission to connect people to the outdoors, GO Fest exemplifies the Roanoke Region’s identity as a premier outdoor destination – a key driver in attracting businesses and skilled professionals.

Dual Locations Boost Regional Impact

A cyclist does trick on some large rocks on a sunny fall day in Roanoke County for Roanoke GO Outside Festival.
The Farrar Brothers performed stunts at Explore Park for Roanoke GO Fest.

This year’s expansion to Roanoke County’s Explore Park provided visitors with a unique, dual-location experience. While Elmwood Park offered a bustling downtown festival atmosphere, Explore Park introduced a natural retreat with adventure activities like Treetop Quest, mountain biking demos, and camping – all while highlighting the county’s long-term vision to enhance quality of life through recreational assets. Notably, 3,000 festival-goers visited Explore Park for the first time, potentially leading to return visits.

Investing in Sustainability for Long-Term Appeal

A group of female teens place cardboard boxes at the Roanoke GO Outside Festival in Elmwood Park.
The Green Team had several volunteers assisting with trash, recycling, and composting at Roanoke GO Fest

GO Fest continued its commitment to environmental responsibility, with the GO Fest Green Team collecting over 1,400 pounds of compost and recyclable materials. New collaborations with national brands like Oboz, who planted over 200 trees, and Pirani, who helped reduce plastic waste, enhanced the festival’s sustainability profile. Such partnerships reinforce Roanoke’s image as a forward-thinking region that aligns with the values of today’s workforce and environmentally conscious companies.

Innovation and Engagement Lead the Way

Young white boy tries out the CaveSim, a realistic cave simulator. He's wearing a blue caving helmet that illuminates the dark cave and stares up at the ceiling in wonder.
Kids enjoyed the CaveSim at Roanoke GO Outside Festival in Roanoke, VA, in October

By offering exclusive, dynamic experiences, GO Fest strengthened its appeal. Highlights included a new cycle track, free public transit access provided by Valley Metro, and immersive outdoor experiences like CaveSim. These additions reflect the region’s commitment to innovation in the outdoor space, drawing in both outdoor enthusiasts and businesses seeking a community that prioritizes lifestyle and accessibility.

By the Numbers: Growing a Vibrant Community

  • Economic Impact: Estimated $3 million injected into the local economy
  • Volunteer Engagement: 350 volunteers contributing over 1,400 hours
  • Sustainability Wins: 200+ trees planted, 28% reduction in plastic cup use
  • Attendee Impact: 44,000 visitors, reinforcing Roanoke’s reputation as an outdoor and economic hub
Large group of people gathering at food trucks and walking down walkways at Roanoke GO Outside Festival in Elmwood Park.
A record crowd gathered at Roanoke GO Fest in 2024

GO Fest not only positions the Roanoke Region as a premier outdoor destination but also as a place where innovation and community spirit thrive, enhancing our competitive edge for attracting top talent and new business investments. Mark your calendar for October 17-19, 2025, and witness firsthand how the region continues to lead in business and talent attraction.