A combined economic impact of $169.4 million was generated by Arizona’s Fiesta Bowl and Cactus Bowl during the 2015-2016 season. The Valley hosted both annual college football bowl games. The total generated money also included direct tax revenue of more than $7.5 million and total direct spending of $79 million. Coming towards the breakdown, $30.7 million came from the 27th Annual Cactus Bowl (West Virginia vs. Arizona State), while $111.6 million came from the 45th Annual Fiesta Bowl (Notre Dame vs. Ohio State), and organized spending made for the additional $27.1 million.
More than 60,775 visitors came to the Valley as the two events are one of the biggest driving forces for visitors interested in sports. Visitors from out of town who had tickets to the Cactus Bowl were seen to average $11 dollars per day more in terms of average spending when compared to visitors having Fiesta Bowl tickets.
In a study, three distinct factors were used in order to develop the 2016 economic impact of the two events. The factors were: out‐of‐town direct visitor spending, organizational spending and indirect and induced effects. The study also went on to say that when compared to the 2010-2011 impact of the same bowls, the 2015-2016 impact was 5% higher. The study had adjusted the buying power of the dollar over the last 6 years.
Dr. Michael Mokwa was the lead researcher of the study. He said that with the Seidman Research Institute he has had the opportunity to analyze some of the largest sporting events in Arizona over the years. “Since we last conducted the study nearly six years ago, a lot has changed, but one thing has remained constant: The Fiesta and Cactus Bowls still contribute an immense amount of visitors, visitor spending and overall economic impact to the region.”
The Director of the Fiesta Bowl, Mike Nealy, also had thoughts to share. “We are honored to host the Fiesta and Cactus Bowl each year as the positive economic impact for Arizona achieves our organization’s mission. When visitors come to our games, they dine at local restaurants, stay at local hotels and shop at local stores. In doing so, it contributes to the various efforts we support. Hopefully, visitors will have a memorable experience and a big win for their team. Surely, it’s a big win financially for the state and our community.”
