It's the third day of the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, and area businesses are already feeling the impact. Restaurants and retailers say their sales are strong and will be for the next three weeks.
Showing horses and cattle is big business that brings out hundreds of thousands of people. But small businesses also bank on this 23-day event.
"We're more than happy to be here. Glad that they accepted us here," said Lewis Mitchell, owner of Cowboy & Cowgirl Barnwood Furniture. "Steady business is fine. You know, like I say, the exposure is the main thing for me. Getting out and about, meeting people. Meet a lot of nice people."
A study by Texas Christian University estimates the economic impact of the show on the Fort Worth area is about 100 million dollars.
It's definitely felt on West 7th Street, from clothing shops to bars and restaurants.
"Everybody benefits hugely from the stock show. We love the stock show. You know they have that thing that says, 'This thing is legendary.' It is for us," said Robin McMullin, long-time bartender at Tillman's Roadhouse. "I love it when they come because people want to get happy at the stock show, and I'm here to make 'em do that."
Every year has brought more customers to the restaurant. McMullin says she expects revenue to double this year.
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Most people can toast to that and to good weather to bring out the crowds and a reason to come back next year.
"I think we will be back. I think we will be back. Yesterday was a good day, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the show," said McMullin.
