After a bidding process — much the way that cities bid to host the Super Bowls — Monster Jam World Finals are moving from Las Vegas to Orlando, Fla.
“The Monster Jam World Championships grew to be a destination event,” said Jayme Dalsing. “We saw it grow over its 19-year history in Vegas. We thought we’d try something new for its 20th anniversary. Once you bring more people from outside that city, it becomes a biddable property. Cities, counties and states are really looking for that business.”
Four cities competed for the event. Orlando won and grabbed a two-year deal for the event, which will take place at Camping World Stadium.
“We have a history with Feld, and their motor sports and their indoor products, said Allen Johnson, CEO of Orlando Venues, the city department that oversees the stadium . “The January regular Monster Jam show has been very successful for us.”
Johnson said that when he heard the finals “were up for bid, and moving out of Vegas, it grabbed our attention.”
Johnson thinks that May is the perfect time to have the Monster Jam roll into Orlando.
“May is one of the slower months in Orlando, and this will give us a nice shot in the arm,” he said.
The Orlando tourist board has “committed $850,000” to bring Monster Jam to town, he said. “This is our mission, to bring more bodies to town.”
Orlando is turning the event into a multiday experience. There will be preshow events in town on Thursday followed by the event at Camping World Stadium on Friday and Saturday.
Johnson expects over 75,000 fans to show up and the revenue “to be in the millions of dollars.” The economic impact to Orlando is expected to be $40 million and over 40,000 room nights.
“There’s mutual respect between the city and Feld,” Johnson said. “I’ve known Kenneth Feld and the Feld organization for over 30 years. They are a professional group and they get it. They are a dream partner.”
Johnson said this will help put Orlando keep into people’s minds as a vacation destination. “The show is seen on digital platforms in over 70 countries, and we’re excited to be the first town to get it,” he said.