ORLANDO, Fla. – As thousands of people packed Camping World Stadium Sunday for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games, many nearby businesses also benefited.
The Pro Bowl Games were last in Orlando back in 2020.
Even with the rain we saw Sunday morning, tailgaters and fans were out early, excited about this year’s event.
Jack Youmans and his brother, Jeffrey, drove to Orlando from Palmetto and said they wouldn’t miss it.
“Just seeing all the best of the best. AFC, NFC,” Youmans said. “The festivities, just being at the Pro Bowl.”
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While it’s a big weekend for fans, local businesses hope to cash in, too.
Nikki Akins is the co-owner of Nikki’s Place in Parramore, blocks away from Camping World Stadium. She said she saw about a 30% boost from the weekend.
“We’re known for that livers and onions. We got the best catfish in town,” said Akins, who added she welcomes the business. “Just come on in and enjoy yourself. You are family to me.”
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Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has said he expects the Pro Bowl Games to bring a huge economic impact.
“For the first four years of Pro Bowls in Orlando, (they) drove significant economic impact estimated at $45 million with 39,000 room nights,” Demings said in July.
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