Concert season strikes a chord with central oregon economy
Tracee Tuesday
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — As concert season ramps up across Central Oregon, venues in Bend, Redmond and beyond are doing more than drawing crowds—they’re helping drive the region’s summer economy.
From large-scale performances at Hayden Homes Amphitheater to local shows at General Duffy’s Watering Hole, live music is bringing in both visitors and locals who spend money on hotels, restaurants, retail and more.
Beau Eastes, marketing director for the Old Mill District and Hayden Homes Amphitheater, says a single sold-out show can have a significant financial impact.
When accounting for spending tied to concerts—from lodging and dining to merchandise and drinks—Eastes estimates each sold-out event can generate around $2.3 million for the local economy.
He says the amphitheater also plays a key role in seasonal employment.
“We hire about 800 people seasonally… it’s a great way to get more money in people’s pockets,” Eastes said, noting the venue draws visitors from across the Pacific Northwest who often explore other parts of Central Oregon during their stay.
That economic ripple extends to smaller venues as well.
At General Duffy’s Watering Hole in Redmond, part owner and operator Tanner Robertson says hosting concerts comes with a high price tag—but also wide-reaching benefits.
Robertson says booking an artist can cost between $50,000 and $100,000, with an additional $30,000 to $40,000 needed to produce a high-quality show.
“…we bring to bear half a million dollars’ worth of staging, lighting, sound system, tech, security,” Robertson said. “For a really big show, we’ll have around 100 staff… we partner with local high school athletics programs… we write them a check for their hard work.”
Those partnerships, along with staffing needs for food vendors, bars and event operations, help circulate money back into the local community.
Large-scale events at the Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center also contribute to that momentum.
County officials say the 2025 Deschutes County Fair drew about 170,000 people over five days, making it one of the largest fairs in Oregon. Year-round, the fairgrounds host roughly 250 events that attract nearly one million attendees, many of whom contribute to the local economy through lodging, dining and other activities.
From amphitheaters to fairgrounds and neighborhood venues, concert season is proving to be more than entertainment—it’s a key economic driver across Central Oregon.