LT2025-011 WASHINGTON STATE HORSE PARK CLTAC

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3| Impact Response 2.1: Why would tourists travel to Kittitas County to attend your event/activity/facility?* Tourists have multiple reasons to visit Upper Kittitas County for a winter light event at Washington State Horse Park (WSHP). Combining the area’s small-town charm, prime location, and reputation as an outdoor hub, it’s an ideal setting for a family- friendly, festive experience. Upper Kittitas County is easily accessible from major cities like Seattle, offering a scenic, snow-covered mountain backdrop. With panoramic views of the Cascades and rivers, a light event set in this natural environment would captivate visitors looking for a magical winter experience. Already known for outdoor activities like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and hiking, the area is a recreation hotspot. A winter light festival at WSHP would enhance its appeal as a winter destination, attracting families and tourists looking for both adventure and holiday magic. The region’s historic charm, with small towns like Cle Elum and Roslyn, adds to the attraction. Visitors can explore the local shops, cafes, and restaurants, supporting the local economy while enjoying the festive atmosphere. This event would also build on the community spirit seen in popular events like Christmas in Cle Elum. WSHP offers an expansive, natural venue for large-scale displays, with plenty of space for vendors and holiday markets, adding to the overall experience. A winter light festival at WSHP would become a must-see event for both locals and tourists, encouraging longer stays and boosting the local economy. 2500 character limit Response 2.2: Describe the prior success of your event/activity/facility to attract tourists.* The Washington State Horse Park (WSHP) has consistently demonstrated its ability to attract a wide range of visitors and tourists through its successful event hosting. Over the past several years, the park has thrived as a premier destination for both competitive and recreational equestrian activities. During its open season, which spans from April to October, WSHP draws more than 40,000 visitors annually, a testament to its growing reputation as a key venue in the region. These events have become highly anticipated within the equestrian community, attracting participants and spectators from all over Washington State and beyond. What sets WSHP apart is not just the volume of visitors, but the diversity of the audience it attracts. The park routinely welcomes attendees from a broad geographic area, encompassing both urban centers like Seattle and Spokane, as well as rural communities across the Pacific Northwest. This diversity is reflected in the zip code data collected from past events, highlighting the broad appeal of WSHP’s offerings. The park has consistently catered to a mix of professional equestrians, amateur riders, families, and tourists seeking a unique and exciting outdoor experience. The success of WSHP events is also driven by the park's potential to host a variety of events, from competitive horse shows to more relaxed family-oriented activities. Visitors are drawn not only by the events themselves but also by the scenic beauty of the park's location in the Cascade Mountains, which adds to the appeal of WSHP as a tourist destination. This blend of natural beauty, top-notch facilities, and a strong track record of successful event production positions WSHP as a standout venue that continues to attract a growing number of tourists each year. 2500 character limit Application Questions: Part 2