LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A handful of sporting and gaming events were planned to take place in Las Vegas this weekend, prior to being canceled due to the pandemic.
Their absence is now being felt in wallets across the valley.
The 2020 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) wrapped up in Texas last night and the World Series of Poker (WSOP) has started online before the final table will be played at the Rio Hotel and Casino.
While the Raiders game today was at Allegiant Stadium, fans are still not allowed inside.
These three sporting events would have brought millions of dollars to the city, boosting the Las Vegas economy, during a time that’s traditionally slow for tourism.
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) estimated that in 2019 NFR had a $187 million economic impact. In 2020 that impact is zero, as the event relocated this year to Texas.
But the economic impact doesn't just come from the main events. The tourism industry as well as smaller and supporting events usually bring big dollars to Clark County during NFR week.
Many are hoping that by the summer of 2021, more events will be announced and returning.
The COVID-19 pandemic and our vaccine response lie at the center of this recovery. In the meantime, it’s important to continue health and safety guidelines.
