There's no question tourism is one of our area's most significant economic drivers, particularly during the summer and at the peak of the ski season. But what about those long shoulder seasons, mid-March through early May, and again during November before ski season starts? Gallatin Valley Tournament Committee has taken this challenge head-on, and the results are proving successful.
Years ago, the committee formed to pursue, promote, and host high school sporting events to drive economic activity to the Gallatin Valley during these shoulder seasons when traditional tourism is lighter. The overall impact of all Montana High School Association (MHSA) tournaments, is estimated between $5,000,0000 and $6,000,000 per year, not including non-MHSA tournaments. That's a lot of revenue flowing through the state.
In 2010 Gallatin Valley hoteliers formed a Tourism Business Improvement District, which is known today as the Gallatin County Tourism Business Improvement District, which helps fund bidding to bring these tournaments to Bozeman and the surrounding area.
In 2019, Gallatin County saw $948,971,000 in non-resident spending during the peak travel season. Bringing tournaments to our area adds a big boost to our local businesses during the non-peak season. Visitors spend money on gas, food, lodging, and retail. It's estimated that each tournament shows revenue to breakdown as follows:
• Restaurants/Bars 25%
• Gas/Diesel 25%
• Grocery/Retail 20%
• Hotel/Motel 18%
• Other 12%
These tournaments add up!
