at the midpoint of now World Junior Hockey TournamentHalifax business continues to welcome an increase in customers to the city’s pubs.
“It’s just busier every game,” said Evan Scott, bartender at Dirty Nelly’s.
“We have capacity here, so we can’t really go over that. So, no matter what happens, we’ll be at max capacity every night when Canada plays. And I’m sure it’ll be that way until the end.”
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Located in the heart of Halifax city centre, Scott says business in Irish pubs is booming, largely because of the World Juniors being held in the city.
“We have pre-game guys that come in and post game,” Scott said. “So it’s been really busy, which is also good for everyone.”
The economic boost comes during Halifax’s off-season, a time when every extra penny counts for local businesses.
“They’ve had a tough couple years,” said Paul McKinnon, CEO of the Downtown Halifax Business Commission.
“The summer was a good recovery time, but a really good holiday season is really important for them. Because, of course, they’re trying to make up for the business they’ve lost over the years. They’ve taken on a lot of debt, so this There couldn’t have been a better time for him.
Just down the street at The Pint Public House, general manager Jenna Vieneau says business has tripled since the World Juniors began on Monday.
“We expect next week to be probably just as busy, if not busier,” Vieneau said. “I’m sure people are looking forward to seeing those final games as well.”
McKinnon says official economic predictions estimate the event will bring in $45 to $50 million between the Halifax and Moncton locations.
“It’s undoubtedly been a big boost for downtown,” he said. “And at a time when restaurants really need it.”
With the games continuing till January 5, businesses in the city are upbeat and ready to welcome hordes of hockey fans.
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