After 36 incredible years of planning and organizing SterlingFest, The Sterling Foundation has made the difficult decision to step back from its coordination. 

 

At the January 14, 2025 meeting, the Board of Directors voted to withdraw from planning and organizing SterlingFest. While this beloved event has brought joy and unity to our community for decades, the challenges of sustaining it have grown beyond what our dedicated volunteers can manage.

​

Over the years, organizing SterlingFest has become increasingly challenging due to a decline in volunteers, rising costs, more licensing and permit requirements, and difficulties securing sufficient sponsorship. As the attendance continued to grow, ensuring a safe and well managed event, added further strain to our small but dedicated planning team. While SterlingFest remains a beloved community tradition, the proceeds no longer align with the significant effort required, nor do they sufficiently support our primary mission—funding the mowing and beautification of Sterling Boulevard

​

To help ensure SterlingFest’s tradition continues, we are created a continuity guide to assist any organization interested in taking on the planning and organizing of the cherished community event. This guide will offer insights and resources to ensure a smooth transition.

​

Moving forward, we are committed to focusing our energy on developing new and impactful ways to raise funds for the Sterling Foundation. We remain dedicated to maintaining and improving our community, and we hope to have your continued support as we explore these new opportunities.

​

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported SterlingFest over the years— Loudoun County Parks, Recreation & Community Service, Sterling Playmakers, the Sterling Community Center and the Sterling Community Center Advisory Board, along with the many dedicated volunteers, sponsors, and vendors. Your contributions and partnership have helped make SterlingFest a cherished tradition, and we are truly thankful for your support.

​

Thank you for being part of this journey.

The Sterling Foundation