By Mike Crump
New York has its Statue of Liberty, South Dakota boasts Mt. Rushmore, and California stands tall with its majestic redwoods. Meanwhile, Virginia proudly flaunts its official slogan: "Virginia is for Lovers." Originating in 1969 from a Richmond-based advertising firm, this iconic phrase has evolved into a symbol of love that transcends borders and manifests itself in over three hundred unique LOVEworks signs across the Commonwealth.
As these LOVEworks continue to captivate hearts, they offer a diverse and captivating window into each community's local charm and resources.
LOVEworks Across Virginia
Dotted throughout Virginia, these LOVEworks are more than just signs, they are expressions of community identity.
Take, for instance, the LOVEwork in the City of Manassas, standing proudly next to the Harris Pavilion. This installation highlights the town's rich historical heritage and thriving business opportunities. Similarly, the LOVEwork at Manassas Regional Airport emphasizes the region's aviation significance, while the one near the Hampton Inn emphasizes the area's importance in tourism.
Recently, in November 2023, Micron Technology, one of the largest technology companies in the United States, built one more LOVEwork sign in the city of Manassas, where one of the 17 locations it has around the world is located.
Notably, a LOVEwork sign has even found a home in Philadelphia, the "City of Brotherly Love," generously donated by Fairfax County.
The Enduring Legacy
The "Virginia is for Lovers" slogan, the longest-running tourist slogan in the United States, continues to be a driving force for travel and tourism. In 2020 alone, the state welcomed a staggering 84.4 million visitors who injected a substantial $17.5 billion into the local economy.
The LOVEworks, now more than mere signs, have become sought-after landmarks for families embarking on a thrilling scavenger hunt adventure, with many of them making it a mission to locate and photograph as many LOVEworks as possible.
Whether you are drawn to history, culture, wineries, hiking, biking, or swimming, Virginia, as the Virginia Tourism Corporation aptly puts it, is for all lovers of adventure. The LOVEworks scattered across the state serve as gateways to exploration, inviting locals and visitors alike to discover the diverse and captivating experiences Virginia has to offer.
So, the next time you find yourself in the City of Manassas, whether for shopping, waiting for a train, or exploring its historic sites, kick off your journey at the LOVEwork sign near the Harris Pavilion.
Virginia's enduring message of love not only encapsulates the warmth and hospitality of its people but also beckons you to embark on a love-filled adventure through its picturesque landscapes, vibrant communities, and rich history.
Find out more about all the LOVEworks by visiting Virginia is for Lovers website.
Sources:
"Virginia Travel Tips, 25 Virginia LOVE signs to visit in 2024," Laura Gray, 26 March 2023
"Prince William Living Magazine," 28 April 2023
"DC Travel Magazine, 52 Best Places to find Love Signs in Virginia Along I-64," Laura Gray
Virginia Tourism Corporation, www.vatc.org, Economic Impact of Visitors in Virginia
