Little League World Series expected to bring $40 million economic boost to PA

PENNSYLVANIA, (WTAJ) -- The 2026 Little League Baseball World Series is expected to generate an estimated $40 million economic impact for Pennsylvania.

The games attracted nearly 70,000 visitors to Williamsport during the tournament's Aug. 19-30 run.

According to the Lycoming County Visitors Bureau, the annual event continues to be a major driver of tourism and local business activity.

First played in Williamsport in 1947, the tournament has grown into a global competition featuring teams from across the United States and around the world.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said the World Series remains an important part of PA sports heritage and economy.

The state supported the event with a $175,000 grant through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Marketing to Attract Tourists program.

This year's festivities featured former Major League Baseball star Steve Garvey as grand marshal of the Grand Slam Parade and Hall of Famer Andruw Jones at the Challenger Exhibition Game.

President and CEO of the Lycoming County Visitors Bureau said the tournament brings more than 70,000 visitors to the region and serves as a key economic driver for Northcentral Pennsylvania.

State officials said the World Series is part of a broader effort to promote PA tourism.

In 2024, the Commonwealth welcomed more than 201 million visitors, generating $83.9 billion in economic impact and supporting more than 514,000 jobs statewide.