Hotel Occupancy Grant applications available

Wimberley residents may be surprised to learn that more than 2 million visitors visited our town between April 1, 2023 and April 30, 2024. This means that the majority of visitors who visited Austin, San Antonio and Houston also found their way to Wimberley. Most visitors came for the area’s attractions, showing a strong preference for sightseeing and seeking leisure activities while they are here.

Last year the City of Wimberley and “Visit Wimberley” gave out nearly $66,000 in grants to various community projects and tourist events that created the need for overnight stays in Wimberley.

Visit Wimberley, which many locals and tourists know as visitwimberley. com, is the official online tourism tool for the City of Wimberley. It is a DMO or Destination Management Organization.

“At Visit Wimberley, we are passionate about showcasing the unique charm and natural beauty of our town. By promoting tourism, we not only boost the local economy but also strengthen our community,” said Leanne Kirby, Visit Wimberley, Director of Tourism.

“Our collaboration with local businesses and residents ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared by all, preserving the rich heritage and vibrant culture that makes Wimberley a truly special destination.”

In 2023, the Hotel Occupancy Tax Grants, known colloquially as HOT tax grants, awarded grants to the following organizations: 1. Wimberley Arts: Wimberley Music Destination – Awarded $5,504.63 2. Wimberley Arts: Singer songwriter showcase – Awarded $7,320.00 3. Wimberley Chamber of Commerce: Wings Over Wimberley – Awarded $6,125.00 4. Texas Textiles 2023 – Awarded $3,500.00 5. Wimberley Players: 2023 Plays: Nunsense and Sense and Sensibility – Awarded $11,000.00 6. Wimberley Lions Club: Wimberley Market Days – Awarded $20,000.00 7. Wimberley Institute of Cultures: Wimberley Starts Here Mural – Awarded $10,000.00 8. Wimberley Civic Club: Home Tour – Awarded $939.86 Total distributed: $64,389.49

Visit Wimberley is again gathering grant applications from community entities that strictly promote tourism. The application can be accessed at cityofwimberley. com/316/ Hotel-Occupancy-Tax