Hockey fans flood Raleigh for Stadium Series, generating millions for local economy
A walk through fan fest shows off jerseys but it is mostly a sea of red as Carolina Hurricanes backers flock to the streets ahead of Saturday's Stadium Series game when the Canes take on the Caps.
While the game is just three periods long, the impact of having the series in Raleigh goes far beyond the ice.
"By any measurement or definition in Raleigh, it’s one of the biggest events we’ve ever hosted," said Scott Dupree with the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance.
Initial ticket sales data shows that about half of buyers are from outside of Wake County meaning they’re bringing in a lot of money as they will be spending on hotels, at restaurants and bars. Visit Raleigh estimates this game alone will generate about $12.4 million.
"I think there are two things working there," started Dupree. "One you have a lot of Canes fans - regionally, not just locally, so they want to be here to see it. Then I think you also have NHL fans who want to see an outdoor game."
Raleigh has hosted a number of major NHL events including the draft and All-Star game. Dupree said this is the final piece of the puzzle for showing how enthusiastic the fans are here and supportive the city is of the league.
Dupree - who has been part of the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance since its inception in the late 90s says the city’s early and continued success as a major hockey market is more than he could’ve imagined.
"You would’ve had a hard time convincing me of that," he said, laughing. "I would’ve though you were crazy."
The impact of the game is expected to last long after the last player skates off of the outdoor ice. Dupree says the shots around the city and the planning and execution of this major event should generate interest and business far beyond this weekend.
"They [will] see Raleigh doing this event and say 'Wait a second. If Raleigh can roll out the red carpet and host this event so successfully, maybe it can host my event.' So I do think events like this open the doors for future sporting events."
