Palm Springs City Guide 2013 / 2014 2013 / 2014 | Page 25

The Future Looks Bright California. However, what might surprise you is that in addition to Los Angeles and San Diego, the markets of Seattle-Tacoma, WA, San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose, CA and Portland are also included in the top 5. The demographic group defined as “America’s Wealthiest”, represents the largest percentage of total tourist dollars and is over 11 times more likely to be a Palm Springs tourist than an average consumer. That’s good news, as this consumer segment tends not to be as affected by changes in the economy. These unique insights give the City of Palm Springs a competitive advantage. According to John Raymond, Director of Community & Economic Development, “This information has the potential to empower business owners to make strategic decisions with insights they’ve never had before.” Special Events In addition to great weather, unique attractions and natural wonders, special events including film festivals, Modernism Week, parades and more (see pages 34 & 35), regularly attract tens of thousands of tourists. In addition, a consortium of tourism leaders is working collectively as P.S. Resorts to promote Palm Springs tourism through events and attractions. Along with local community leaders like Harold Matzner, the organization has already proven to be an effective force, with a positive economic impact. This group helped bring the 26-foot tall, “Forever Marilyn” sculpture to the city along with a series of related free concerts, including “Tachevah”. Now planned as an annual event to be held between the two Coachella Music Festival weekends in April, this event drew more than 6,000 music lovers in its first year, and its only expected to keep growing. Not content, to rest on past success, the group is working with local event companies and consultants to develop new ideas. According to Aftab Dada, Chairman of P.S. Resorts, “The incredible success of Tachevah and the Forever Marilyn concerts proves that there is a high demand for even more new and exciting events. We look forward to working with the city and community leaders to develop unique entertainment ideas that will bolster tourism in our great city”. 23