There’s always something going on in Austin, but this weekend could set records with all the people heading to the Capital City.
Not only will the undefeated Texas Longhorns take on a top-ranked Georgia team, but drivers will also hit the track at Circuit of the Americas for F1.
“We are anticipating this to be a record-breaking weekend,” said a spokesperson with Visit Austin.
Many people visiting Austin are from around the nation, but there are also a lot of people visiting from other countries, and a lot of the money they spend goes back into the local economy.
“The hickory burger is the most popular burger we sell,” said Lono Zurita, owner of Lono’s Southern Cooking and Keto Cuisine.
Her food truck is no stranger to F1 weekend and many of the people in line were lining up again this year for her famous burgers.
“I have been here 4 years and we have a lot of people return from all around the world that remember us,” said Zurita.
She says the growth in Austin and big events coming to Austin are good for small businesses, but also give the fans a taste of some local cuisine.
We usually fly in on a Thursday, check-in then go to a nice restaurant, nice dining Friday, Saturday Sunday,” said Dylan Prat who is in town from Phoenix.
All those fans also need transportation and, of course, a place to stay.
“I am in an AirBNB so I am supporting the local economy,” said Kim Reimer who is in Austin from Florida.
Visit Austin says hotel rates are up compared to last year and so are the number of people visiting.
“The average daily rate for this weekend is averaging 5% higher than last year,” said a spokesperson with Visit Austin. “Occupancy is averaging 8% higher than last year.”
Visit Austin says the direct economic impact from this weekend is more than $480 million.
Angelou Economics estimated that total comes from hotels, food, drinks, rental cars and other shopping.
