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Waterloo says Pumpkin Fest drew visitors from out of town; city touts tourism benefits
Summary
Community relations staff reported Pumpkin Fest was well attended and attracted visitors from Springfield and the St. Louis area, calling the event a tourism draw and listing several upcoming community events and ribbon cuttings.
City staff told council that Pumpkin Fest drew strong local attendance and visitors from outside the area, which staff said demonstrates the festival's value to local tourism.
Community Relations Coordinator Sarah recounted speaking with visitors who said they return every year, and that some had traveled from Springfield and the St. Louis area. "We're with the city of Waterloo... this is the one event a year that we organize," she said while describing guests who told staff, "A+ ... We just absolutely love it." Staff said the festival helps downtown businesses and that the city will continue the event next year.
Sarah also listed upcoming events including Witches Night Out (planned by the chamber and Explore Waterloo), two ribbon cuttings in late October/early November (Limitless Chiropractic and Salt of the Earth Wellness), a trunk-or-treat on Halloween and a Veterans Day program on Nov. 10. She said the visitor-guide advertising renewal will be brought to the council for formal approval and noted the guide's print run and associated digital ad campaign.
Council members thanked volunteers and staff for producing the festival and emphasized its role in community engagement and local business promotion. The city will place the ad-renewal item on the council agenda for final approval.
