Indiana officials say April’s total solar eclipse festivities in April made an approximately $148.5 million impact on the state.
Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC) unveiled the results of a comprehensive statewide economic impact study.
- Taxes generated by visitors totaled $45 million during the eclipse period ($18 million federal, $14.4/state, $12.2/local).
- Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants and retail stores, saw significant revenue increases: (lodging, $45 million; food/beverage, $63.8M; recreation/entertainment: $65M; transportation: $9.7M; retail: $5.4M).
Indiana welcomed more than 3.5 million visitors (estimated) for the eclipse, representing a 45% boost to regular visitor volume and a 41.1% boost to regular visitor spending.
Groups in Wayne and other counties planned events, festivals and educational programs to celebrate the eclipse and promote local culture.
“Indiana capitalized on this unique event through IDDC’s targeted and enhanced digital marketing and local communities hosting engaging events,” said Elaine Bedel, IDDC’s Secretary and CEO. “Planning for the 2024 eclipse was truly a statewide effort with state and local governments, visitor bureaus and local businesses coordinating efforts to ensure a safe and exciting event for both visitors and Hoosiers.”
View the full study at https://platform.crowdriff.com/m/s-FQlr9IQmDaVsjoFP.
A version of this article appeared in the July 3 2024 print edition of the Western Wayne News.