Special events such as sporting events, conventions, and even the Summer Olympics can bring lots of money into the state and the host community. Spurgeon Richardson, president of the Convention and Visitors Bureau, lists ways people spend money at a special event.

How Much Does It Cost to Host an Event?

How Much Does It Cost to Host an Event?

Special events such as sporting events, conventions, and even the Summer Olympics can bring lots of money into the state and the host community. Spurgeon Richardson, president of the Convention and Visitors Bureau, lists ways people spend money at a special event.

1. How does hosting special events like sports tournaments and conventions impact a large city like Atlanta's economy?

2. Compare and contrast the benefits you explained above, with the costs, of hosting such events. What must a government consider when bringing so many people into their cities?

1. Your teacher should assign small groups of students a special event in the community or in a nearby community to research. In your group, call or email the Chamber of Commerce or Convention and Visitors Bureau in that community and collect information about the event including income and expenses and report to the class.

2. There are several facilities in Georgia that can hold conventions and conferences. Make a list of at least five of these and visit their websites. Find out how many people may be accommodated in each of these facilities. How many meeting rooms does it have other than the largest assembly hall? Does it have a place to get a meal (restaurant or catered)? Is there adequate parking? Can you get there using public transportation?
If possible, find out the cost of holding a five day convention in that facility.

convention: a large meeting of people who come to a place for usually several days to talk about their shared work or other interests or to make decisions as a group

conference: a meeting of persons who deliberate, discuss, or learn something

special event: any event where a large number of people are brought together to watch or participate

1. How does hosting special events like sports tournaments and conventions impact a large city like Atlanta's economy? 
Patrons spend lots of money when they come to town to stay by eating and shopping while they are here. Local merchants see an increase in business and if the events are received favorably, outsiders may return to invest in the city and grown its economy. 

2. Compare and contrast the benefits you explained above, with the costs, of hosting such events. What must a government consider when bringing so many people into their cities?
Answers may vary. Students may note the amount of money a city needs to spend to keep eveyone say and the increased use of public goods and services like roads.

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