Explore Evansville has announced the results of a comprehensive economic impact study conducted around the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, which highlights the significant contributions of eclipse tourism to the regional economy. The study, commissioned by Explore Evansville and executed by Rockport Analytics, focused on the counties of Posey, Gibson, Vanderburgh, and Warrick. This regional approach allowed for a thorough analysis of the economic benefits brought by the eclipse visitors to Southwest Indiana.
Study Highlights
•Study Period: The study covers the period from April 5-9, 2024.
•Visitor Volume: The total visitor volume during this period was 150,382.
•Visitor Lift: There was a significant visitor lift of 40,004, representing the additional visitors specifically due to the eclipse.
•Tourism Spending Lift: The total tourism spending lift amounted to $6.6 million, reflecting the additional expenditure generated by the influx of visitors.
•Direct Business Impact: The total direct business impact, identified as “economic impact” in the study, was $4.6 million. This figure represents the value added to the regional economy due to the increased tourism activity.
The study utilized a robust methodology, including geolocation and credit card spend data, lodging statistics, and tax data, to derive these figures. The IMPLAN economic model was employed to estimate the ripple effects of traveler spending through the state and regional economies, considering direct, indirect, and induced impacts.
While the study covers extensive data and economic analysis, it does not capture the unprecedented community collaboration, the perfect eclipse viewing weather, and the seamless execution of events and other planning without major incidents. These elements contributed immensely to the overall success and positive experience for visitors and residents alike.
The 2024 solar eclipse was a once-in-a-generation event, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond. The findings of this study underscore the substantial economic benefits that such unique events can bring to Indiana communities.
For more information or to access the full study, contact Kate Reibel at 812-598-6751 or kreibel@exploreevansville.com.