The economic impact of the Air Force Academy graduation

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Thousands of friends and family flew into Colorado Springs for the Air Force Academy graduation on Thursday, May 30, giving local businesses and hotels a big boost. People came from around the world for Thursday’s graduation, and it gave these local spots some much-welcomed business on the north side of town.

“As you can see, we’re pretty full right now, and it’s been great. Great for business,” said Ronnie Sanchez, the General Manager of SpringHill Suites. “Great for the economy all around here in this whole neighborhood.”

Restaurants had lines out the door, and many hotels were out of space, which means it was all things graduation weekend for the new lieutenants and their families.

“We have great food and great cocktails. So, yeah, we’re expecting to be pretty busy tonight,” said Travis Bernard, the manager of Atmosphere Gastropub on Interquest Parkway.

Bernard said the restaurant and pub will be a popular spot for the next few days, which means it’s all hands on deck for their staff.

“Lunch was really busy today, a little busier than we thought it was going to be, so that’s always a good thing. But like I said, with the hotels and the suites all around the area, that’s going to bring our business up,” said Bernard.

However, they were not the one only establishment that saw an influx this week. SpringHill Suites said it was at full capacity Thursday night.

“We have 100 rooms total at this hotel and they’re all suites. They’re either, you know, for two-bedroom suites or a one king suite, and we’re occupied at 100%. So, it’s busy” said Sanchez.

SpringHill had guests come in from around the world, with one family traveling all the way from Africa to watch their child graduate, and another from Alaska.

“I think it does do a lot to boost the economy, to grow the city, bringing that extra in or the extra money into the community,” said Donald Hamsen, a retired veteran visiting from Alaska.

Despite the packed crowds, business owners said they were honored to give back, offer good food, and a place to stay.

“We love serving everybody military, non-military, their families in and out of town. So, we love we love taking care of everybody,” said Bernard.

At least 28,000 people attended Thursday’s ceremony at Falcon Stadium. Congrats to all the 2024 graduates!

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.