WKRN |Thousands expected at wild turkey convention

Thousands of wild turkey hunters are expected this weekend at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center for the National Wild Turkey Federation’s annual convention.

Organizers expect more than 40,000 to attend, and Nashville is hoping to make millions from their visit.

“It’s really exciting,” said Brian Dowler with the NWTF. “Everything we have done so far leading up to where we kick off this evening has looked really good. Everybody has got a lot of excitement. We’re hearing form folks in town they can’t wait to get here.”

The convention draws hunters from all 50 states.

In 2007, the last time the convention was in Nashville, the event brought over $4 million to the Nashville economy.

“45,000 people stay in hotels, they come in and eat lunch on their way through so it’s not just here on site at Opryland and it’s not just our money, it is the entire economy that benefits,” said Dowler.

Kim Keelor with Gaylord Opryland said, “[It] has a huge economic impact for all of us in the hospitality industry, the entertainment industry in Nashville and it is a very visible one because the National Wild Turkey Federation has shows on the outdoor channel, they are very visible in the media, it’s a good thing for Nashville.”

The event is not all about hunting turkeys.

It is touted as a family event with something for everyone; why organizers say it draws such a large crowd.

The National Wild Turkey Federation said it is committed to Nashville and plans on coming back for at least the next five years.

Convention tickets are still on sale. Tickets cost $10 a day or $25 for a three-day pass. Admission for kids 12 and under is free.

via WKRN, Nashville, Tennessee News, Weather, and Sports |Thousands expected at wild turkey convention.