As the 16th edition of the Lotus Festival kicks off, venues throughout the city offer visitors a chance to explore the diversity of the world’s cultures in music and arts. It also serves as a great opportunity to give Bloomington’s businesses a much appreciated boost in one of the city’s busiest weekends.
Some businesses put on their own concerts and display stands. PourHouse Cafe employee George Drake Jr. said they adjust work hours to fit the festival.
“Sometimes we add an extra staff just because it does get pretty busy and the line does tend to go out the door or at least towards the door at the very least.”
City of Bloomington Assistant Economic Development Director Miah Michaelson adds that the festival is a great opportunity to showcase everything that is going on downtown.
“It helps, obviously, to get exposure for local businesses and restaurants and retails. People visit the shops, the galleries, even the restaurants, we think it’s a boom for downtown.”
The festival lasts through Sunday with many downtown shops looking to reap the rewards of serving the estimated seven thousand guests the festival attracts.
