Little Rock prepares for Saturday's big Razorback game, expects boost to local economy

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — War Memorial Stadium is gearing up for their second of two big games this month when they host the Arkansas Razorbacks on Saturday.

The Little Rock stadium can hold over 50,000 fans with tickets going for around $40 a piece.

According to the ticket diagram, 14 sections have already been filled and each open section is over halfway full.

Last weekend, the Salt Bowl between Benton and Bryant brought in 18,000 people to the stadium.

Gina Gemberling, president of the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, said these games are a big revenue boost for the city.

We love to see visitors come into Little Rock," said Gemberling. "The more they are here, the more they experience all the great things there are to do and see. They are spending money in our community and leaving with a positive experience.”

Gemberling said the game is not the only thing that visitors will spend their money on this weekend.

"Of course, it helps fund our operation here at the Convention and Visitors Bureau through lodging taxes and prepared food, but as well as just general sales taxes into not only the city of Little Rock but the county and the state," she said.

She said all of the money made goes right back into the city.

"That is everything from the quality facilities that we operate at the Robinson Center and the Statehouse Convention Center as well as our streets, sidewalks, police, and fire," said Gemberling.

She said they are also hosting Paint The Town Red, a free parade and tailgating event on Friday. She said their goal is to make Little Rock the place to be this weekend.

It is so important for us to keep a game or two of the Razorback games in Little Rock," said Gemberling. "We wanted to welcome the university, welcome the players, welcome the fans, as well as bring everyone in a day before to get ready and get pepped up for the game on Saturday.”

The parade will start at 7 p.m. Friday at the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and go to the First Security Amphitheater in the River Market.

CLICK HERE for tickets to Saturday's Arkansas Razorback Football game vs. Western Carolina. Security rules for War Memorial Stadium can be found HERE.