Dine & Discover Marana Breaks Participation Records

For Immediate Release

September 14, 2026

Marana, AZ – Dine & Discover Marana wrapped up its fourth summer with record participation, as 367 people completed the community dining challenge, generating an estimated 1,468 visits to Marana-area restaurants, cafes and other participating food focused businesses.

Dine & Discover Marana began four years ago as a partnership between the Marana Chamber of Commerce and Discover Marana, the Town of Marana’s official tourism organization, to support local food-focused businesses during the summer months. Participants visit locations, complete their challenge card, and earn limited-edition Dine & Discover merchandise like t-shirts and hats.

Based on an average of $50 spent per restaurant visit, this year’s challenge generated an estimated $73,400 in local dining activity.

The 2026 challenge also marked the first year participants could choose a digital challenge card or the traditional paper version. More than 300 people opted into the digital program, recording 499 check-ins at participating businesses. They also took photos at the check-ins showing where they ate.

One participant summed up their favorite part of Dine & Discover as, “trying restaurants I had not been to previously and discovering new businesses in our town.”

“Dine & Discover is a great example of what can happen when our community intentionally chooses to support local,” said Amanda Wiggins, President/CEO of the Marana Chamber of Commerce. “Nearly 1,500 visits to Marana dining businesses during the summer months represents real activity for our local businesses, and we’re proud to continue growing this program alongside Discover Marana.”

“The whole idea behind Dine & Discover is to give people a little nudge to try somewhere they haven’t been before,” said Stefanie Boe, Tourism and Marketing Manager for the Town of Marana. “We want people to find that restaurant, coffee shop, or local spot they love this summer and then think of it again when friends and family come to visit.”

Photos from the challenge are available here: https://share.crowdriff.com/01M2GW2MV20CG07b23c92b5259e21d

About the Marana Chamber of Commerce

The Marana Chamber of Commerce is a member-supported organization representing more than 850 businesses and community partners throughout Marana and the surrounding region. The Chamber works to strengthen the local business community through connection, advocacy, resources and programs that support a thriving local economy. For more information, visit MaranaChamber.com.

About Discover Marana

Discover Marana is the official destination marketing organization for the town of Marana, Arizona. Our mission is to inspire visitors to discover the natural beauty, rich history, cultural diversity and outdoor adventure that Marana has to offer. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a family-friendly vacation, a romantic escape or an active exploration, Marana has something for everyone. Our town is close to everything the region has to offer, with easy access via Interstate 10, the major freeway through Tucson.

For more information about Discover Marana and its programs, visit DiscoverMarana.org

Contact:

Stefanie Boe, Discover Marana

sboe@Maranaaz.gov

520-279-4564 (text-friendly)

or

Brandon Mejia, Discover Marana

520-486-1970 (text-friendly)

bmejia@maranaaz.gov