Bowl season brings thousands of fans to Orlando, boosting economy

Orlando is gearing up for an influx of college football fans as three bowl games are set to take place over the next three weeks.

Camping World Stadium will host the Cure Bowl this Friday, followed by the Pop-Tarts Bowl next Saturday and the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Eve. Local businesses are anticipating a significant economic boost, with Florida Citrus Sports estimating that the events will generate nearly $100 million, a figure that has remained consistent in recent years.

When is the Cure Bowl?

  • Date: Friday, Dec. 20, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. 
  • Location: Camping World Stadium
  • 2024 teams: Ohio Bobcats, Jacksonville State Gamecocks
  • Tickets

When is the Pop-Tarts Bowl?

  • Date: Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024 at 3:30 p.m. 
  • Location: Camping World Stadium
  • 2024 teams: Iowa State Cyclones, Miami Hurricanes
  • Tickets

When is the Cheeze-It Citrus Bowl?

  • Date: Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. 
  • Location: Camping World Stadium
  • 2024 teams: South Carolina Gamecocks, Illinois Fighting Illini
  • Tickets

Davin Adams of The District Gastro Bar on Church Street, which sits off the typical downtown nightlife path, said the upcoming games will draw more people to the area. 

"It just means that it’s going to push more people to this side of downtown Orlando," he said. 

Other businesses are also eager for the added foot traffic during this busy season.

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