TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – As Florida State University prepares to face off against the University of Miami, local businesses are anticipating a significant economic uplift from visiting and home fans alike.
“The influx of out-of-town visitors provides a substantial boost to the local economy,” said Ray Tamargo, managing partner at Bowden’s. “It shines a spotlight on small, locally owned establishments and gives visitors a chance to experience what Tallahassee has to offer.”
Tamargo estimated that around 5,000 people would visit Bowden’s throughout the day. Madison Street was already bustling with FSU supporters on Saturday afternoon ahead of the game.
“With rivalry games like this, I enjoy reconnecting with alumni and friends who haven’t been back in years,” Tamargo added.
The matchup attracted attendees from across Florida and other states. Barry Campbell and his wife traveled from Jacksonville. Originally Gators fans, their allegiance shifted when their son enrolled at FSU.
“Once he started here, we became full supporters,” Campbell said.
He noted they attended every home game last season. “This year we’ve scaled back a bit, but we still come for the major matchups. This is our first time tailgating at the civic center.”
Like many Seminole supporters, Campbell is optimistic about a victory over the Hurricanes. “The atmosphere is going to be electric,” he said.
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FSU-Miami game brings economic boost to Tallahassee businesses
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – As Florida State fans prepare for a big game against the University of Miami, businesses are looking forward to the economic impact from fans on both sides. n n“Having a lot of these out of town people really helps boost the local economy,” Bowden’s Managing Partner Ray Tamargo said. “It really puts a spotlight on a lot of us local, mom and pop places, and really can show people from out of town what Tallahassee can do.” n nTamargo said they’re expecting to see roughly 5,000 people throughout the day at Bowden’s. Madison Street was also filled with Florida State fans before the game Saturday afternoon. n nWith these rivalry games, I look forward to seeing people, alumni, and friends that used to come here years ago,” Tamargo said. n nSaturday’s matchup also brought fans from various parts of the country and the state. Barry Campbell and his wife came to Tallahassee from Jacksonville. Campbell said they used to be fans of the University of Florida until their son started school at FSU. n n“When he came here, we just jumped in with both feet,” Campbell said. n nHe said they did not miss a home game last season. “This year, we toned it down a little, but we come to the big ones, and this is our first time tailgating here at the civic center.” n nLike many FSU fans, he’s hopeful for a win over the Hurricanes. “It’s going to be electric,” Campbell said. n nTo keep up with the latest news as it develops, follow WCTV on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Nextdoorand X (Twitter). n nHave a news tip or see an error? Write to us here. Please include the article’s headline in your message. n nBe the first to see all the biggest headlines by downloading the WCTV News app. Click here to get started.