Yakima Economy Get A Boost From Conventions and Sporting Events

2012 was a big year for the Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau. A new report says in 2012 the Yakima Convention center hosted 125,127 visitors during 494 event days and brought in nearly $9 million to the local economy. Earned revenue hit an all-time high of just under $800,000. Sports events continue to expand and grow, providing economic benefits and exposure for the Yakima Valley. The Yakima Valley Sports Commission estimates the economic impact of sports tourism in the Yakima Valley was $33 million in 2012 (up 15% from 2011) and the number of sporting events held was 416 (up 8% from 2011). In addition, the sports commission launched pirate plunder adventure race, which welcomed 878 runners in its inaugural year.