When Old HilliardFest came to an end in 2023, Hilliard businesses, community partners, the City of Hilliard and Destination Hilliard came together to create something new. What started as a community-driven response quickly became a new Downtown Hilliard tradition centered around shopping local, family fun and celebrating everything people love about Hilliard.
Now entering its fourth year, For the Love of Hilliard continues to grow. Destination Hilliard is excited to announce expanded community sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 event, taking place Saturday, September 12 in Downtown Hilliard.
Last year’s event generated more than 4,000 visitors throughout Downtown Hilliard during the event and participating business hours, while event-related digital content exceeded 23,000 impressions.
Returning sponsorship opportunities include traditional Headlining and Supporting sponsorships, while new and expanded opportunities create additional ways for businesses and organizations to engage with attendees through interactive experiences and community activations.
Expanded opportunities for 2026 include:
- Petting zoo sponsorship opportunities
- Live music sponsorships
- Entertainment sponsorships
- Community partnership opportunities for businesses looking for an accessible way to participate
- Additional on-site engagement and visibility opportunities
Sponsors receive a variety of benefits depending on partnership level, including:
- Social media recognition and tags
- Logo placement on the official digital event map
- Website recognition
- On-site signage
- Event participation space
- Interactive community engagement opportunities
One of the newest additions for 2026 is a themed petting zoo experience featuring miniature cows and other animals in the heart of Downtown Hilliard.
For the Love of Hilliard remains focused on showcasing local businesses, encouraging community connection and creating an experience that reflects the spirit of “Everyone’s Hometown.”
Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to connect with Destination Hilliard early, as several partnership categories are limited.
For more information, contact Haylee at hlombardi@destinationhilliard.org
*Note: for the full listing of 2026 Destination Hilliard Opportunities, click here.
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