'Boom' Of Fireworks New Year's Eve Means Big Boom In Business
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- As the year winds down, local businesses are gearing up for a big boost to their bottom line. The New Year's Eve Spectacular is among the largest on the East Coast, and it means big business for Baltimore.
Jessica Kartalija has more.
The chilly winter months mean fewer visitors to Charm City, but with the boom of the fireworks, comes a big boom in business.
"It's a really nice gift," said Tom Noonan, President and CEO of "Visit Baltimore."
He says 50,000 people are expected to head downtown for the New Year's Eve Spectacular, 80 percent coming from outside the city, pouring some $7 million into Baltimore's economy.
"Come downtown, spend the night, have a great meal, see the fireworks display. Get up the next day, walk around the city," Noonan said.
Downtown bars, hotels and restaurants can't wait to ring in the new year.
"It's exciting. It's totally different than any other night of the year," said Ed Prutzer, GM of the Rusty Scupper.
"Everybody gets a four-course dinner, a champagne toast at midnight. We have party favors, we have dance dancing and, of course, the cap off to the whole evening is the fireworks," Prutzer said.
And of course, it isn't just the Rusy Scupper. All area businesses with a view will be packed on New Year's Eve.
"It's a great celebration for Baltimore. It's one of the few cities that has a big, big, big fireworks display on New Year's Eve. So it's a nice draw for us," said Noonan.
The fireworks display is one of the biggest, showcasing Baltimore as one of the best cities to visit on the East Coast, which can make for a very happy new year for everyone.
Don't forget--this Tuesday, it's WJZ's New Year's Eve Spectacular with Denise and Kai. Coverage starts at 11 p.m. right here on WJZ.
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