Bowl games bring big bucks to Valley economy

GLENDALE, Ariz. - Bowl games are certainly big business and the Valley is seeing the economic benefit.

Hours before the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, the grounds were packed outside the stadium with people buying food, beverages and merchandise before Oklahoma State faced off against Stanford.

"Oh, I've probably spent at least $2,000 in two days," said Ashley Romero while standing outside University of Phoenix Stadium.

"I think I'm about the same probably $1,500 to $2,000 including hotel," said Emily Korinek who is in town from California.

Turns out, the two girls aren't alone.

"If you include airfare, at least $2,500 and I haven't spent money today, yet," said Don McCune from St. Louis.

According to Fiesta Bowl officials, the Insight Bowl in Tempe and the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale have roughly a $90 million impact just on food and beverage alone and nearly $70 million on lodging.

The Fiesta Bowl saw a crowd of nearly 70,000 people. Many said despite spending big bucks, they plan to return to take a vacation.

"I have loved it here, the weather is great, the people have been great, so yes, I will return," McCune said..