CVB: May-July events to bring $7.8M economic impact

Tens of thousands of people are expected to create a multimillion-dollar economic impact during May-July events, according to new estimates from the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Nearly 40 group events are scheduled in Springfield, and the estimated economic impact is at least $7.8 million, according to a news release. Around 48,000 people are expected to attend the events, generating an estimated 16,500 room nights at area hotels.

The largest is the National Street Rod Association's Mid-America Street Rod Nationals, scheduled May 27-29 at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds & Event Center. Around 12,000 people are expected to attend the event.

No. 2 is the 2023 Missouri State High School Activities Association State Baseball Championship, which is projected to bring 8,000 players, spectators and others to the Springfield area in late May and early June, according to the release.

"Nine other events are expected to draw at least 1,000 attendees, including five sports events ranging from golf to pickleball," officials said in the release.