Cheyenne Frontier Days sees drop in attendance, profit

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) - Cheyenne Frontier Days’ annual report says the outdoor rodeo and western celebration was less profitable last year than in 2016.

The Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports the net profit last year was $887,744, down from almost $1.5 million the previous year. The annual report reveals more than 201,000 visitors purchased tickets in 2017, down from 259,000 in 2016.

Cheyenne Frontier Days CEO Tom Hirsig credits the steep drop in attendance and net profits in 2017 to an exceptionally profitable 2016.

But Cheyenne Frontier Days Committee Chairman Bill Berg says last year’s Frontier Nights attracted the 12th-largest crowd in history with country music singer Jason Aldean.

Cheyenne Frontier Days may incorporate virtual reality to enhance visitor experience, and could consider including participatory experiences with future events.

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Information from: Wyoming Tribune Eagle, http://www.wyomingnews.com