Wine Festival’s First Year On Streets Of Downtown Shows Positive Results
The Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. is happy to announce the celebration of the 18th Annual Wine Festival, which happened on the charming streets of the downtown historic direct for the very time on Saturday, June 8, 2024. This year’s festival marked a significant milestone, as it transitioned from the picturesque setting of Lover’s Lane to the vibrant heard of downtown, infusing the event with a new energy.
This year’s event welcomed 810 wine enthusiasts to Downtown Excelsior Springs. Attendees were able to sip, sample and explore 16 wineries and 2 craft breweries, alongside 18 eclectic vendors and 2 food trucks.
The decision to relocate the Wine Festival to downtown was driven by safety and DEP’s commitment to support local downtown brick-and-mortar businesses. The Estimated Economic Impact Report, prepared by the DEP Executive Director, with data from Placer Labs, Inc. reveals the resounding success of this move:
- Increased Downtown Spending: Attendees’ total spending in downtown businesses increased by 17%.
- Increased Festival Grounds Spending: Expenditures within the festival grounds soared by an impressive 32%.
- Overall Spending Increase: These increases culminated in a total spending rise of 27%, proving the festival’s significant boost to the local economy.
The comprehensive report, encompassing survey responses from event attendees, wineries, vendors and downtown businesses, along with visitation data from Placer.ai highlights the festival’s positive economic ripple effects throughout the community.
Our deepest appreciation extends to all of the DEP Volunteers, as their efforts are what make this event possible. A special thanks to our DEP Annual Sponsors, Community Bank of Missouri and Excelsior Springs Hospital, whose generous support is pivotal in making all DEP events possible.
We also extend our gratitude to Butterfly Kisses Boutique, Vesta Hearth & Home, and Willow Spring Mercantile, the 18th Annual Winery Sponsors, whose unwavering support and community spirit enriched the festival experience.
The transition to the downtown locale was met with enthusiastic approval from attendees, wineries, vendors and local businesses. Attendees praised the seamless flow and reduced wait times, enjoying the newfound ability to explore downtown’s charm between sips. Wineries, breweries and vendors applauded the event’s organization and the enthusiastic participation of volunteers and staff. Downtown businesses basked in the increased foot traffic, with many reporting significant boosts in sales.
While the festival’s debut downtown was a radiant success, we are attentive to the constructive feedback received. Suggestions for more water stations, additional shade, and extended business hours during the festival are noted and will be thoughtfully considered for future events. Attendees expressed a desire for a broader selection of brewery samples and more upbeat musical performances, which we are excited to incorporate in the years to come.
This year’s 18th Annual Wine Festival has set a precedent, and DEP eagerly anticipates the future of this event. Their commitment to bolstering local businesses and providing a great experience for all attendees remains steadfast.
Photography Credits: Nate Williams, Megan Vosika, Jason Cole, Courtney Cole, Lyndsey Baxter
About the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc.
The Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. is a nationally and stated accredited Main Street non-profit organization dedicated to the revitalization and growth of Downtown Excelsior Springs. Through collaboration with business owners, local government, and the community, DEP works to enhance economic development, cultural vitality, and the overall quality of life in the downtown area.
For more information about the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. and upcoming events, please visit VisitExcelsior.com.
Contact
Name: Lyndsey M. Baxter
Title: Executive Director
Phone: 816-719-9912
Email: exec@visitesprings.com
Website: VisitExcelsior.com
