In a press conference today, Mayor Jerry Sanders highlighted the city’s 1,700 civic athletic and community special events and its impact on the economy. Sanders said these events give an important boost to the region, generating more than $200 million for the city.
Two of the cities largest events will take place this weekend, the 32nd Annual LGBT Pride Festival, a cultural event in Balboa Park, and the San Diego Surf Cup XXVI, a six-day youth soccer tournament. Organizers of the Pride Festival are expecting more than 40,000 people in Balboa Park and about 150,000 are expected to attend the Annual LGBT Pride Parade on July 29. Officials said the festival is expected to generate $21 million.
San Diego Surf Cup XXVI organizers are anticipating an attendance of 12,000 people per day with tournament participants coming from 30 states and six countries. The event is also estimated to bring in $19.53 million.
– MARNETTE FEDERIS