DENVER — As the Denver Broncos prepare for their playoff game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, many metro Denver marijuana stores are getting ready for a boost in business.
It’s estimated that each Broncos game provides a multimillion dollar boost to restaurants and hotels in the region.
But the brand new recreational marijuana also sees extra business whenever the football team plays in the Mile High City.
The Broncos’ positive impact on our local economy is well-documented.
“The tourism that’s related to the marijuana industry is huge,” said Liza Baker of the LoDo Wellness Center. She added that game day always brings more traffic and cash to the dispensary. Much of the extra business is from out-of-town shoppers.
It’s hard to connect Peyton and company directly to pot sales, but two of the biggest months for recreational marijuana business in 2014 were in September and October. The Broncos played five of their eight home games this season during that time. Colorado took in more than $5.2 million in taxes from marijuana sales during just those two months.
The most popular product? “Edibles. I know some people say it makes them a little warmer, which is great for cold games,” Baker said. Temperatures during Sunday’s playoff game are expected to be in the 40s.
Baker says the extra sales provide a tax boost for the state that Coloradans can cheer about, but she warns that fans who use a little pot may have a hard time cheering on the team. “May be a little bit giggly too, but you may not be as inclined to stand up.”