Explore Evansville Honored with Dual Awards as 2024 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism

Sports tourism is putting Evansville on the national map! Explore Evansville recently received dual honors in the prestigious 2024 Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism awards, a title given by Sports Destination Management, the premier publication for sports event planners nationwide. This year’s champions boosted the U.S. economy by a total of $1.88 billion, with Evansville playing a significant role in that impact.

Two Major Events Drive Economic Impact for Evansville

Explore Evansville received accolades as a Mid-Market Champion for two major events in 2024, which brought both revenue and excitement to the city:

1. 2024 IHSAA State Wrestling Tournament: A collaborative effort between the Indiana High School Athletic Association, the Ford Center, and DoubleTree by Hilton Evansville, this event created an impressive $3.74 million economic impact. The tournament attracted thousands of athletes and spectators, drawing people from across the state to experience Evansville.
2. US Figure Skating Theatre on Ice National Competition: Held in partnership with the Greater Evansville Figure Skating Club, Ford Center, and Swonder Ice Arena, this competition brought in $2.93 million in economic value. Fans and skaters from around the nation enjoyed Evansville’s hospitality, showcasing the city's capacity to host high-profile national events.

Over 10,000 Visitors and Nearly 6,000 Hotel Nights

Together, these two events attracted more than 10,000 athletes and fans to Downtown Evansville, resulting in almost 6,000 hotel room nights. Local businesses, hotels, and restaurants saw a major boost as visitors explored the city’s dining, shopping, and entertainment options. This influx not only strengthened Evansville's economy but also highlighted its appeal as a vibrant sports tourism destination.

Recognizing Local Champions Behind the Success

Alexis Berggren, President & CEO of Explore Evansville, credited the city’s local organizing committees and volunteers, whose dedication brought these events to life. “None of this would be possible without our dedicated local organizing committees,” said Berggren. “Each person plays a critical role in ensuring a memorable experience for athletes and fans. We owe our success to their commitment.”

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Read More in Sports Destination Management

Evansville’s sports tourism accomplishments are celebrated in the November/December 2024 issue of Sports Destination Management, recognizing Explore Evansville among an elite group of champions. Check out the full article online to explore the stories behind this year's impactful sports events.

This recognition marks a proud achievement for Evansville, affirming the city's place as a top choice for major sports events with far-reaching economic benefits.