Let's Co-create Tom Tom
From the beginning, Tom Tom's schedule has been catalyzed with community-led events. Each year, hundreds of participating organizations (and individuals!) share their skills, interests, and missions with the Charlottesville community and with civic visionaries around the nation. At the 14th Annual Tom Tom Festival we’ll explore how COURAGE is cultivated: in our society, in our communities, and in our daily lives to dream beyond the limits of what seems possible. You’re invited to help us tell that story.
Round 2 applications close December 31.
How do I get attendees to come to my event?
While many attendees will discover your event through our website, app, and other promotions, we recommend leveraging your own network to reach your audience. Make sure to promote your event to your networks as well!
PARTNERING WITH TOM TOM
What is a partner Event?
Partner events can be a wide range of programs: workshops, lectures, meetups, open houses, dance parties, friendly competitions, performances, and sunrise meditations. They can be free or ticketed. The main focus is to connect people, bring value to the Charlottesville community, and align with the core principles of our 14th annual theme: COURAGE.
This April 22-26, 2026.
How do I apply?
The first step is to fill out the Community Partner Application form. Once submitted, we’ll review it and follow up with any questions.
Do I have to pay to be a Community Partner?
There is no application or participation fee for partnering with Tom Tom. However, you are responsible for providing your own supplies. Most partners secure their own venues, though Tom Tom can offer venue suggestions.
What Does the Tom Tom Team Do?
Tom Tom will add your event to our Festival schedule and website, and integrate you within our social media. We also provide digital branded assets for your social sharing. During the Festival we provide Festival banners and signage to maximize your event visibility. Tom Tom devotes an average of 30 hours of support to each community partner, which includes assistance with event visioning, production, design, and promotion.
Tom Tom also offers complimentary workshops and community partner mixers, providing expert guidance on event types, venue recommendations, and logistical planning.
Finally, community partners receive complimentary tickets to select events at the Festival so that the collaboration and connection with other partners can occur.
How do I cover the costs of my event?
You can fund your event through ticket sales, sponsorships, or in-kind donations. Sponsors who contribute over $2,500, including in-kind donations such as event space, will be recognized. To ensure they receive this recognition, please inform us of any sponsors who commit to supporting your event by March 1.
