Latest news with #WisconsinDepartmentofTourism
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Tourism up in Chippewa County, across the state
CHIPPEWA FALLS — Tourism in the Chippewa Valley, and across the state, saw an increase in the past year, according to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. The state agency released its 2024 economic impact data Tuesday, showing Chippewa County tourism climbed by nearly 5%, which contributed to Wisconsin's third consecutive record-breaking year. 'Chippewa County's $193 million tourism impact and the 4.9% increase over last year's record highlight the area's growing appeal as a destination,' said Sue Leonard, Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce tourism director. 'It's clear that more and more people are discovering what we've always known: this is a special place. Visitors are drawn by our natural beauty, our lively festivals and events, and most of all, the warm welcome they get from our communities.' Eau Claire County also announced it had its third straight year of growth in tourism revenue. The county generated a record $461 million, an increase of 0.6% increase over last year's $459 million. 'The continued growth in tourism spending reflects the incredible momentum we are seeing in Eau Claire County as a must-visit destination,' said Kenzi Havlicek, Visit Eau Claire executive director. 'This progress would not be possible without the collaborative spirit of our community and business partners who help create such a wonderful place to visit. From our thriving arts scene and rich cultural offerings to the scenic beauty of our outdoor spaces, Eau Claire continues to draw thousands of visitors who are discovering all that makes this region so special.' Statewide, all-time high visitation drove Wisconsin tourism's record-breaking $25.8 billion in total economic impact last year. The 2024 economic impact surpassed the previous Wisconsin record of $25 billion from 2023. Locally, Chippewa County also surpassed the previous record of $184 million set in 2023. The boost in visitation, economic contributions from all corners of Wisconsin including Chippewa County, and strategic investments in tourism promotion drove the state's historic year for tourism, Leonard said. 'Our packed calendar of events in 2024, from Wisconsin Farm Technology Days and the Harley Owners Group Rally to the State Dartball Tournament and all kinds of sports tournaments, kept our communities busy,' Leonard said in a press release Tuesday. 'But it's not just about big events. What really makes Chippewa County stand out is the dedication of our tourism partners and the community as a whole. Together, we've created a destination that's vibrant, welcoming, and affordable for everyone.' Leonard noted that the chamber has worked on a social media campaign that stresses the variety of activities available locally, from outdoors options to tours of local breweries and wineries. Wisconsin tourism welcomed 114.4 million visits in 2024, beating the previous record from 2019 by more than a million, and growing the number of part- and full-time jobs the industry supports to 182,000, the press release states. Locally, Chippewa County tourism supported 1,440 jobs (a 2.7% increase from 2023) and generated $11.6 million in state and local tax revenue. At the state level, tourism generated $1.7 billion in state and local tax revenue. Without this revenue, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $678 to maintain the current level of government services. 'Last year, Wisconsin tourism brought in more money, welcomed more visitors and generated more revenue for state and local governments than any other year,' said Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. 'Tourism in all corners fueled this hat-trick of records for an accomplishment the entire state can celebrate. The impact of the visitor economy is felt statewide. Tourism sustains livelihoods and local businesses, uplifts communities and powers Wisconsin's economy.'
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Thomas Dambo and volunteers will build Wauwatosa troll this month before the big reveal
A 24-foot-tall troll sculpture made mostly from locally recycled materials that's expected to draw tourists into Wauwatosa will be unveiled to the public by its world-renowned creator at the end of May. Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo, known for creating larger-than-life troll sculptures all over the world, was commissioned by the city to create his first Wisconsin troll in Wauwatosa's new Firefly Grove Park, residents learned in August 2024. Dambo, his traveling staff and local volunteers will build the sculpture during the month of May using recyclables including wood sourced mostly from trees that were removed from Wauwatosa's public parks and spaces, according to a news release. The Danish artist will reveal the new troll at an 11 a.m. ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday, May 28, at the park at 116th Street and Gilbert Avenue. Dambo will be joined by elected officials including Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers and Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride. A public celebration of the new park is also planned for 4 to 6 p.m. Dambo has created more than 138 of the whimsical creatures in communities globally, often with the help of local volunteers. Each Dambo troll is made entirely out of recyclables, oftentimes pallets, and earns a name and personality. Tourists from all over are known to flock to Dambo's trolls, and Beth Gleesing, tourism specialist of the City of Wauwatosa, said at the city's 'State of the City' address April 23 that she expects the same impact in Wauwatosa. The troll is the latest art initiative the city has invested in throughout recent years. ART 64, a bracket-style, live painting competition, will happen in the Wauwatosa Village June 6 and 7. Firefly Grove Park will also have five benches designed and created by artists, according to the release. Bridget Fogarty reports on Wauwatosa, Brookfield and Elm Grove. Contact the reporter at bfogarty@ This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Thomas Dambo constructs Wauwatosa troll before big reveal May 28
