2025 Grey Cup Festival in Winnipeg: A Resounding Success with $93 Million Economic Impact
The 112th Grey Cup and 2025 Grey Cup Festival in Winnipeg generated over $93 million in economic activity across Canada, as per an independent assessment by Sport Tourism Canada (STC). The festival, held from November 10 to 16, culminated in the Saskatchewan Roughriders defeating the Montreal Alouettes 25–17 at Princess Auto Stadium. The event drew praise for its success, with over 28,000 out-of-town visitors and a fan experience rating of 4.5 out of 5, showcasing Winnipeg's hosting capabilities and benefiting various sectors like hotels, restaurants, retailers, and tourism partners.
Wade Miller, President and CEO of the Winnipeg Football Club, expressed gratitude to all involved in making the Grey Cup Festival a success, highlighting the positive impact on the city and province. The event's success was further emphasized by Jennifer Thompson, Executive Director of the 2025 Grey Cup Festival, who emphasized the lasting value created for the host community through partnerships, experiences, and exposure to visitors from across Canada. CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston commended the Blue Bombers for their exceptional hosting, combining football with a weeklong celebration that left a lasting impact on attendees and fans.
The Festival saw nearly 49,000 unique attendees participating in various events, with a total attendance exceeding 345,000 across venues, parties, and celebrations. The event attracted over 28,000 out-of-town visitors who stayed for an average of 4.2 nights, contributing significantly to the economic impact. The assessment, conducted by Sport Tourism Canada using the STEAMPRO economic impact model, validated by the Canadian Tourism Research Institute, utilized Statistics Canada data to quantify the event's economic benefits.
The 112th Grey Cup and 2025 Grey Cup Festival in Winnipeg were a resounding success, generating substantial economic activity and showcasing the city's hosting capabilities on a national scale. The event's positive impact on various sectors, including tourism, hospitality, and retail, highlights the significance of major events in driving economic growth and community engagement. The collaborative efforts of all involved, from organizers to volunteers and fans, contributed to creating a memorable and successful Grey Cup experience that will be remembered for years to come.