Point Park University Hosts National High School Dance Festival, Injecting More Than $2 Million Into Pittsburgh’s Economy Monday, March 3, 2025
“We are thrilled to see the positive economic impact of the National High School Dance Festival on our vibrant city. This event not only enriches the cultural landscape of Pittsburgh but also underscores the city's appeal as a premier destination for arts and education.”
Point Park University is pleased to announce that the recent National High School Dance Festival, held from February 26 to March 2, 2025, in Downtown Pittsburgh, has had a significant economic impact on the city. The event, which drew over 2,100 attendees, is estimated to have generated more than $2 million in economic activity for the local community.
This year's festival, the largest of its kind, welcomed more than 1,600 high school students from 100 schools across the U.S. and internationally, offering them the opportunity to engage in master classes, performances and scholarship auditions. The event utilized four local hotels — Omni William Penn, EVEN Hotel, Embassy Suites Pittsburgh and Hyatt Place Pittsburgh North Shore — resulting in over 2,600 room nights.
“We are thrilled to see the positive economic impact of the National High School Dance Festival on our vibrant city,” said Garfield Lemonius, dean of the School of Dance and artistic director of the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University. “This event not only enriches the cultural landscape of Pittsburgh but also underscores the city's appeal as a premier destination for arts and education.”
KDKA: High Schoolers Visit Point Park for National Dance Festival
The Festival's success highlights Point Park University’s role as a leader in performing arts education and its commitment to fostering community engagement and economic growth in Downtown Pittsburgh.
In the midst of what is typically a slow winter week for conventions and events, Point Park’s hosting of the Festival provided a much-needed boost to Downtown and the economy. By attracting a large influx of visitors during a traditionally quiet period, the Festival helped invigorate local businesses, including restaurants, shops and hotels. This influx of activity not only supported local commerce but also showcased the city's vibrant cultural scene, reinforcing Pittsburgh's reputation as a dynamic and welcoming destination for arts and education.
“The National High School Dance Festival is an invaluable recruitment opportunity for Point Park University,” said Marlin Collingwood, vice president of Enrollment Management. “By hosting this event, we not only showcase our exceptional performing arts programs but also provide high school students with a firsthand experience of our campus and community. This exposure is crucial in attracting talented students who are passionate about the arts, and we are excited to see the potential impact on future enrollment.”
