As anticipation builds for the rare celestial event on April 8, the total solar eclipse is not just capturing the imagination but also fueling an economic bonanza, particularly in the northeastern United States. Vermont’s Jay Peak Resort stands as a prime example, where excitement has been building for years, leading to a surge in bookings and local business activity.
” ‘The hype is real’,” recalls Steve Wright, the resort’s general manager, as he reminisces about the early rumblings surrounding the eclipse. “It’s almost a like a concert that causes people to come into town, but they might do other things and see other things,” noted economist Ray Perryman.
Fast forward to today, and all 900 rooms at Jay Peak are fully booked for April 7 and approximately 800 rooms for the day of the eclipse itself, a stark contrast to previous years. The influx of tourists isn’t just about witnessing the celestial phenomenon; it’s about embracing the spirit of the event, with weddings, concerts, and skiing festivities planned atop the resort’s summit.
Wright’s foresight is paying off, with the resort expected to generate revenue equivalent to a typical month in just one weekend. But it’s not just Jay Peak reaping the benefits. The entire region is abuzz with activity, as businesses gear up to welcome the influx of visitors.
Across the country, from Texas to Vermont, cities in the eclipse’s path are gearing up for viewing parties and special events. Fredericksburg, Texas, will host an Eclipse-O-Rama with science expert Bill Nye, while Rochester, New York, is brewing a special commemorative beer, the Rohrbach Totality Black Lager. The economic ripple effect extends beyond major cities, with smaller towns also poised to benefit from the surge in tourism.
Economist Ray Perryman estimates that the eclipse could inject as much as $6 billion into local economies, with Texas and Vermont among the top beneficiaries. For Vermont, a state with a relatively small population, the projected economic boost of $230 million is significant, demonstrating the widespread impact of this celestial spectacle.
As Americans prepare to witness the rare event, they’re also investing in proper gear, such as solar eclipse glasses, to safely view the eclipse. Retailers are capitalizing on the opportunity, offering promotions and giveaways to attract customers.
While the total eclipse may only last a few minutes, its economic impact will be felt for days, if not weeks, as visitors explore and spend in local communities. For small towns especially, the eclipse represents not just a scientific phenomenon but also a chance to showcase their charm and hospitality to the world.
As Wright aptly puts it, “The whole community is sold out,” underscoring the transformative power of this celestial event on local economies and communities across the northeastern United States.
Credit: CBS News
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