Chow Chow attracted national talent and recognition, hosted 3,200 attendees, stimulated $2 million in local business spending, generated $136,000 in local tax revenue, and provided a $53,000 contribution to MANNA Food Bank. Chow Chow was enjoyed by locals (66%) as well as visitors.
Here at the culmination of National Tourism Week (May 5-11) and with the start of the summer travel season on the horizon, the timing feels right to shine a light on the public good that we can attribute to tourism and share the ways that lodging tax revenue will be activated to help manage impacts and plan future investments for the benefit of both Asheville area residents and visitors.
Every day, I am inspired by local people who launch and live their dreams here, dreams that are possible because of tourism.