The recent government meeting in McKinney highlighted the successful hosting of the NCAA football championship game, which took place on December 21, 2024. This year, the Ferris State Bulldogs from Michigan triumphed over the Valdosta State Blazers from Georgia with a score of 49 to 14, marking their third matchup in McKinney.

The event was complemented by a vibrant Fan Fest held at Tufts, which was hosted for the first time in its new location. The festivities included performances by both schools' bands, cheerleaders, and a DJ, creating an engaging atmosphere for attendees. The mayor of McKinney took an active role as emcee, energizing the crowd and enhancing the community spirit.

A notable aspect of this year’s Fan Fest was the introduction of food options, which significantly boosted sales compared to previous years. The venue reported record sales, with food and drink revenues surpassing $8,000, a substantial increase from the previous year when only beer sales were offered.

In terms of accommodations, the meeting revealed that Ferris State utilized 392 room nights, while Valdosta State accounted for 219 at local hotels. The Sheraton in McKinney and the Marriott in Allen were the primary lodging options for the teams. The meeting also discussed the use of the PlayEasy digital platform, which aims to streamline hotel bookings and promote local events. This year, the platform generated eight room bookings, indicating its potential for future use.

Despite the overall occupancy rates being slightly lower than last year, the meeting emphasized the importance of the event for local businesses and tourism. The occupancy rate reached nearly 76% during a challenging travel period just before Christmas, showcasing the resilience of the local hospitality sector.

Looking ahead, officials expressed optimism about future events and the potential for increased attendance and engagement. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue leveraging digital tools and community involvement to enhance the experience for visitors and residents alike.