San Diego’s Museum Month Generates $5.65 Million in Earned Media, Highlighting Museums’ Economic and Cultural Impact
Museums are a major contributor to San Diego’s economic engine and tourism industry as illustrated by the strong start to February’s Museum Month. After just the first week, the program has generated $5.65 million in earned media for the region’s museum community. That is nearly triple last year’s total of $2.1 million.
Museums and the arts generate $1.1 billion annually in economic activity within the County of San Diego and support over 35,000 jobs and even more volunteer opportunities. They also attract millions of visitors who spend at local restaurants, hotels, and businesses. Museum Month amplifies this impact by boosting attendance and encouraging both locals and tourists to explore San Diego’s rich cultural scene.
We couldn’t have achieved this level of impact without the support of our presenting sponsor San Diego Foundation together with additional major funding from Prebys Foundation, California Arts Council, The City of San Diego Department of Cultural Affairs, San Diego County Arts & Culture Commission and Serra Cooperative Library System. We are proud to be supported by First 5 San Diego which helps families nurture children from birth to age five.
We also are supported by the strategic efforts of our marketing team including Shortfuse Marketing CEO and Founder Bridget Palitz, the San Diego Tourism Authority‘s Director of Digital Marketing Brent Bernasconi and Digital Marketing Manager Lauren Bradley, Tom Felkner and the 70+ museum marketing teams whose expertise has helped amplify the visibility of participating museums and bring even greater public engagement to Museum Month.
💡 Why Does Earned Media Matter?
Unlike paid advertising, earned media is organic, builds credibility, and enhances public trust in cultural institutions. As we work to make arts and culture more accessible to all, this type of exposure ensures that museums and their invaluable contributions receive the recognition they deserve.
📣 Keep the Momentum Going!
Visit a museum, share your experience, and join us in making San Diego’s arts and culture scene more vibrant than ever! Find the FUN at https://lnkd.in/gcB-BgjX
San Diego Museum Month was created in 1989 to promote the region’s diverse range of world-class cultural offerings during a traditionally slow period for most local museums. Last year, more than 110,000 people participated in the program across the region, enjoying half-off admission at local museums.
The program has grown over the years to include a broader range of San Diego institutions beyond traditional museums, including aquariums, nature and wildlife centers, gardens, historic sites, state parks, and more. In 2020, 40 museums participated in Museum Month. In 2025, there are more 70 participating locations. For a full list of participating locations, visit the San Diego Museum Council website.
The Museum Council is thankful for the generous support of our sponsors!
