PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • June 18, 2024
The solar eclipse on April 8 delivered a powerful boost to Maine’s economy, increasing total spending by out-of-state visitors and in-state travelers more than 23% compared to the previous four weeks, the Maine Office of Tourism, Film and Outdoor Recreation announced Tuesday. Categories with the largest spending increases statewide were bars and nightlife, 79%; gas stations and convenience stores, 45%; outdoor recreation, 39%; pharmacies, 33%; and accommodations, 19%. Overall spending increased 99% in Aroostook County and 48% in Franklin County compared to the previous four weeks. On the day of the eclipse, about 80% of observed visitors were from outside Maine.