Sumitted by: Lorraine Des
By definition, festivals attract visitors. And visitors spend money, which positively impacts the local economy both on and off the festival site.
On-site spending for things such as admission fees, food, beverage and purchases from onsite vendors average $50 per attendee.
But off-site spending related to festivals generates revenue for communities too. Visitors stay in hotels, stop at local gas stations, stores and restaurants. The economic benefits of successful festivals ripple throughout a local economy–affecting tourism and non-tourism- related businesses alike.
Although we have no means of determining how much money was spent in our local businesses during the Honey Festival week-end June 17-19, certain retail stores and restaurants had undoubtedly seen growth in their sales.
We can tell you, however that the implementation of the Honey Festival itself boosted our economy by nearly $40,000!
The operational expenses included:
– 12 local businesses – $11,617.22 in goods and services
– 6 regional non-profit groups – $4,843.65 for services provided
– 5 other businesses from the Peace Region – $2,236.50 in goods and services
– 4 businesses from outside the Peace but within Alberta – $10,250.00
– 3 employees (including 2 students) – $10,022.00 in wages
Next year will be the 25th anniversary of the Honey Festival. We look forward to working with the Town of Falher and the Smoky River region to make it a grand celebration.
First and foremost, we need leaders who can help rekindle our Community Spirit and engage our businesses, community groups and residents. Join our team and help in the planning as this is where the relationship building occurs.
If interested, please email me at beehive@telusplanet.net.
Planning will begin in September, much of which can be done via group email.