WNBA All-Star Game sparks citywide promotions from Indianapolis businesses

Indianapolis is preparing to host the WNBA All-Star Game next weekend, and city officials and local businesses are “coordinating efforts to expand the All-Star experience beyond the court,” according to Marisa Reinhard of the INDIANAPOLIS BUSINESS JOURNAL. A variety of options -- including “themed menu items, limited-time promotions, and interactive experiences” -- are planned by “numerous Indianapolis-area businesses, dubbed Hot Spots,” accessible to visitors regardless of whether they have tickets for the game. Nearly 30 participating restaurants, breweries, hotels and entertainment venues across the city will “have WNBA-inspired items or promotions available July 18-20.” WNBA All-Star Host Committee Project Coordinator and Legacy co-Chair Dianna Boyce said that promotions “attract customers, in turn drawing in business for participating locations.” Boyce added that the goal is to “create an environment where people can engage with the All-Star Game in multiple ways.” Many venues are also “offering deals tied to providing proof of purchased WNBA tickets or team apparel,” and some are also “drawing on the occasion to promote donating to charities and nonprofit organizations.” Additionally, the committee has made “branded materials such as coasters and signage available to participating businesses” (INDIANAPOLIS BUSINESS JOURNAL, 7/9).