Nashville’s largest annual tourism event saw a slight dip in economic activity this year. According to newly released data from the city’s Convention & Visitors Corporation, the 2017 CMA Music Festival generated just under $58 million in visitor spending, which is roughly $2 million less than last year.
The dip comes as the number of locals attending the four-day event rose 15 to 20 percent this year. Tourism officials say that’s partly due to greater festival outreach to attract Nashvillians.
There was a continued decrease in visitors staying in hotels. Roughly two-thirds stayed in hotel rooms, down from three-quarters in 2016 and more than 80 percent in 2015. Tourism officials say their research shows an increase in home rentals and staying with family and friends.
The amount of local sales tax generated by this year’s CMA Fest is estimated at $5.3 million.
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