What is Homecoming without UW gear, beer, breakfast food, or visiting alumni?
Many local businesses begin to feel the positive effects of Homecoming this week in anticipation for this weekend. Everywhere from Prairie Rose to Atmosphere Mountainworks can see the difference that this event causes in foot traffic, costumers, and sales revenue.
Shops, even those who do not sell UW affiliated gear, sees an influx of foot traffic if not sales.
The Brown and Gold Outlet Owner, Matt Lehning commented on how the excitement, and Cowboy spirit increases foot traffic, helping all the small businesses in town.
Lindsey Olson, Sewer and Future Owner of Atmosphere Mountainworks located downtown, described they see more foot traffic this weekend, even though they do not sell any UW gear.
She continued to describe how the parade and cold weather will bring in customers; for example, if someone forgot gloves, hats, or, if they are really unfamiliar with Laramie, even a coat.
The best thing to pair with a great football game is great food. Restaurants throughout Laramie feel an influx of people during homecoming weekend.
Attitude Chophouse and Brewery’s General Manager Benjamin Nutt said that they can feel the effects of Homecoming as early as Wednesday, when they host Coach Bohl Radio show from 7-8p.m.
With a weekly highlighted player, hosted by Dave Walsh in coordination with various special guests, the show draws a crowd of approximately 50 to 60 people.
All aspects of the business increase from reservations to people just stopping by for a beer or a bite.
One of the best parts of Homecoming weekend is breakfast Sunday after the game, this is where Prairie Rose waitress Jenna Iechbush commented on how the Homecoming game brings business to the restaurant. Throughout the weekend the restaurant is kept busy, usually not slowing down until about two in the afternoon.
Hotels throughout Laramie feel the effects of Homecoming being sold out. People will be coming as early as Thursday, but most arrive Friday before the game and remain through Sunday.
Colton Irene, Assistant Front Desk Supervisor at the Hilton Garden Inn, showed how Homecoming, as well as the Border War games bring in a lot of business for them.
“With their close proximately to the field, the Hilton Garden works closely with the Cowboy Joe Club and Alumni from throughout the state,” Irene said.
Director of Sales and Marketing of the Holiday Inn, Amanda Disney said “Across the way, Homecoming brings a lively atmosphere to the Holiday Inn beginning Thursday.
“This hotel, along with many others in town, is nearly sold out; they are doing a Homecoming tailgate Saturday where there will be chili dogs and drink specials available in celebration,” said Disney.
The Hampton Inn has also sold out according to their Assistant General and Sales Manager, Aubrey Finch. Many of the people staying at this hotel are regulars with their bookings starting nearly a year in advance; the week after homecoming, when the next year’s homecoming dates are announced, is when most people will book the rooms for the following year Finch said. They anticipate this happening again this year after the Homecoming activities come to a close.
Throughout Laramie, Homecoming brings in an influx of people, from both in-state and out-of-state, that support not only the University of Wyoming, but also our Laramie community.
By exploring the City of Laramie and participating in Homecoming events you too can support small businesses throughout Laramie.
