TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Local communities are preparing for an increase in tourists leading up to the holidays and weekend.
As the weekend approaches, Terre Haute is gearing up for holiday tourism, and while 2023 was a record year for tourism in the city, Karen Dyer, executive director of the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau, said events leading up to the holiday season have raised the bar.
“In addition to several other events, including an air show, the opening of the Larry Bird Museum and the 55th Special Olympics, all took place within a matter of weeks,” Dyer said. “More than 60,000 visitors came to our community that month alone, generating more than $30 million in economic impact for our community.”
While the city will host several Fourth of July events, the tourism impact of the holiday will go beyond just the festivities. Josh Alsip, community engagement director for the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, said people will have to make choices about how they spend their free time.
“It’s amazing to see the number of people who come downtown,” Alsip said, “not only to our events, but to have a drink at our bar, have lunch or dinner at our restaurant, and then visit and experience one of the many museums that we have.”
All of this points to a fun-filled holiday and weekend across the Wabash Valley.
