Influx Of Football Fans Means Big Money For Businesses
ARLINGTON (CBSDFW.COM) – More than 85,000 college football fans are in North Texas this weekend for the Cowboy Classic: A showdown at Cowboys Stadium featuring two nationally ranked teams, No. 4 LSU and No. 3 Oregon.
The fans are doing more than just cheering on their favorite team, they're also rallying business in North Texas.
"It's my first time here – it's a lot of fun. We're a little out numbered, but should be a great game," Oregon fan Jack Bloom said.
These fans brought more than just their enthusiasm for their team - they also brought their spending power, and every single one of them is spending money, bolstering area economies.
"Just visiting all the sights in Dallas, seeing McKinney Avenue, Fort Worth, Arlington. It's such a cool city. We're excited to be here," LSU fan Trista Carmouche said.
Brendan Banks lives in North Texas, but he's hosting friends from his home state of Louisiana.
"We've gone downtown and bars here in Arlington. Everybody's excited about the stadium – that's the big thing," Banks said.
Fans who weren't able to make it to Cowboys Stadium, found a welcome table at bars and restaurants in Arlington.
"Bottom line – we're making a lot of money and having a good time," Assistant General Manager of Humperdinks, Shane McIntosh said.
"It's a great holiday weekend because normally that day is slow and quiet so we're definitely looking forward to the good money we'll make this weekend."
Making it a win-win for both fans and businesses in North Texas.
"All these people are coming here to spend money, it's great! It's exciting – all this excitement – I enjoy it," Banks said.
