by Michelle Watson
Once again, Clear Lake was the place to be for the July 4th holiday.
“All in all, this year’s 4th of July Celebration was a resounding success,” said Stacy Doughan, Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce CEO. “The weeklong celebration of Evans United Shows’ 50th year in Clear Lake was definitely the highlight. Flashing Thunder also out did themselves once again, putting on a breathtaking fireworks display over the lake.”
Although the fireworks had to be delayed to July 5, due to inclement weather, the display was spectacular. Doughan commented that after speaking with Tom Evans, of the Evans United Shows, the delay of the fireworks was a wash. There was lower attendance on July 4, but that was offset by higher attendance for the evening of July 5. The carnival also remained open longer on July 5th to accommodate the fireworks crowd.
The Chamber uses a software program called Placer.ai, which uses cell phone traffic data and algorithms to determine the number of visitors over a certain period. Last year, Clear Lake City Park had approximately 40.4 thousand visitors over the course of the July 4th week. This year, City Park had 52.7 thousand visitors. In the larger Clear Lake area, 150,000 people visited Clear Lake over the course of June 29-July 5, which is about the same as last year.
Doughan said that as far as an economic impact on the area goes, the carnival and BINGO had record revenues. 10 years ago, she said the estimated economic impact of the 4th of July Celebration was $10,000,000. She said that number has likely grown, but there has not been a new economic impact study done since 2013.”
“We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the City of Clear Lake, community, our sponsors, volunteers, and all those who contributed to the success of this incredible event. Clear Lake looked more beautiful than ever. We are proud to be a part of such a vibrant and supportive community,” said Doughan.
