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South Carolina, Illinois clash at Cheez-It Citrus Bowl a boon for Orlando tourism

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Updated  December 31, 2024 8:49pm EST
Orange County
FOX 35 Orlando

Cheez-It Citrus Bowl a boon for Orlando tourism

The Citrus Bowl, played annually in Orlando since 1947, is the seventh-oldest bowl game in the country. It traditionally features top teams from the Big Ten and SEC, drawing fans from across the country. This year, it’s the final of three bowl games hosted in Orlando, the most of any city.

The Brief

    • The South Carolina Gamecocks played the Illinois Fighting Illini at the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl in Orlando.
    • The event, part of Orlando's three bowl games this year, has generated an estimated $100 million for the local economy.
    • Fans described the game as both a family vacation and a thrilling football experience.

ORLANDO, Fla. - The South Carolina Gamecocks faced off against the Illinois Fighting Illini on Tuesday at the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl in Orlando, a game that fans described as more than just a sporting event — it’s also a chance for a family vacation.  

The Citrus Bowl, played annually in Orlando since 1947, is the seventh-oldest bowl game in the country. It traditionally features top teams from the Big Ten and SEC, drawing fans from across the country. This year, it’s the final of three bowl games hosted in Orlando, the most of any city.  

Florida Citrus Sports estimates that all three games have generated $100 million for the local economy.  

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"This is a family destination over the holidays," one attendee said. "My son flew in from Idaho, and the rest of the family drove down."  

Another fan added, "We’ve had a lot of fun. We went to Port Orlando last night—it was awesome."  

With tens of thousands of fans in attendance, every big play on the field echoes with economic impact for Orlando, making it a win-win for football and tourism.

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