It’s the first day of the Cheltenham festival and with the town preparing for a busy week ahead, why is it such a big occasion?
The atmosphere of the festival is like nothing else, for racing fans and for non racing fans it seems to be an occasion that Transends the sport.
The festival brings in over 200,000 people every year, while down 4.9% from last year the numbers are impressive and for the community and businesses of Cheltenham it means so much.
Lewis Drabble owner of new night club Maggie’s “It’s really fun to be a part of it, with people coming out to have a good time it’s our job to do that, there’s a nice vibe around the time and everyone is in good spirits.”
Drabble had one message to anxious locals, “come out, experience it for yourself.”
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According to Horseevents the festival has a 274 million impact on the economy directly and indirectly and is a crucial driver for local hospitality, retail and accommodation businesses in the Cheltenham and Gloucestershire area.
Over the four days the average expenditure per attendee has also increased notably. In 2016, racegoers spent an average of £584 during their visit, but by 2022, this had risen to £697. These figures highlight the festival’s ability to drive high levels of consumer spending in the town’s restaurants, bars, and retail outlets.
It’s also an event that employs thousands of staff over the four days in the region to support the festival which can only be great for the people of Cheltenham.
The event fosters a sense of pride among residents supporting local businesses in ways that extend beyond the four-day spectacle.
The festival’s influence can be seen in various community engagement initiatives, including collaborations with local charities, schools, and arts organisations.
The influx of visitors brings a unique vibrancy to Cheltenham, with high-street retailers, independent shops, and entertainment venues enjoying a seasonal boost.
