(Arnolds Park)– University of Okoboji Winter Games traditionally is a big shot-in-the-arm for the Lakes Area Economy this time of the year when things are typically slow on that front. Kylie Zankowski of Vacation Okoboji says all indications are that this Winter Games Weekend will still draw a lot of people…
“We never really know what to expect and how visitors are going to come but our hotel numbers and rental numbers really can give us a good gauge. Of course we were hoping for that million dollar snow, it’s not called a million dollar with no reason. Our availability reports are looking good. You know our hotels are currently about 75 percent full with Air BNB’s close behind that as well, so it’s looking again like we’re going to have a great influx of people come in, pretty comparable to a busy summer weekend. That’s huge for our area especially in such a slow time of the year for us. A lot of businesses are able to open back up if they were closed for the season and a lot of our different businesses that are even open year-round really rely on the income they’re able to make this weekend. Individuals, as well, it’s no different for them to be able to make money as well. So it’s huge for our area but not only economically is it great but it’s great for morale, as well. I think everyone gets really excited to see the area come back to life and really fill up with visitors, so. It’s a great thing for our community all the way around.”
Some have expressed concern the lack of snowfall and the fact there will not be a kite festival this year could have a negative impact on turnout. Zankowski doesn’t think that will be the case, though…
“I think our numbers will be hopefully higher than last year, that’s kind of how it’s looking at the current moment. Of course if we got snow I know that we would even be more full, but I think people get excited. What’s so great about Winter Games is you know this year we’re celebrating 45 years of Winter Games. We’ve seen this event on no snow, no ice, blizzard conditions, absolutely freezing cold. And Winter Games, the fun doesn’t stop whether there’s snow or ice so. People really love those traditions. They love coming back year after year. We’re excited to welcome new people for the first time and that’s what’s so great about this year and the event as a whole is just all of the things that we offer, all the way around the community. Over 40 different music opportunities for people to enjoy, free events, family events. So people are chomping at the bit to get out to the Iowa Great Lakes and enjoy all we have to offer this weekend.”
Stay tuned to KUOO throughout the weekend and follow Explore Okoboji-dot-com and our social media platforms for reports and updates throughout the weekend, beginning this (Thurs.) evening. Our morning show tomorrow (Fri.) will originate from The Ritz where we’ll be visiting with those who help make Winter Games possible.
