County Reports Rafter 3C Generated $30+ Million in Economic Impact in Three Years

Three years after opening, the Rafter 3C Arena and the larger 3C Event Complex are showing strong returns for Churchill County. According to county figures, the facilities generated more than $12 million in local economic impact during the 2024–25 fiscal year.

The complex, formerly the county fairgrounds, has steadily increased its contributions to the community since opening. In 2022–23, the economic impact totaled $8.49 million, rising to $11.6 million in 2023–24, and topping $12 million in 2024–25.

County staff attribute much of that growth to multi-day events that draw visitors from outside Churchill County. The NIAA State Wrestling Tournament, held in February, was the largest generator last year, bringing in 560 contestants and roughly 8,000 spectators. County estimates indicate 6,720 of those visitors traveled from outside the area, spending money on lodging, food, fuel, and other purchases.

Using conservative state economic impact formulas, officials estimate each out-of-town visitor spends $147 per day while in the community, though county leaders believe the actual figure is likely higher due to inflation. Because the complex can host multiple events at once—including the Rafter 3C Arena, Fairview Arena, Lee Green Arena, and the festival grounds—several events often contribute to the local economy simultaneously.

Deputy Director of the 3C Event Complex, Jesse Segura, said out-of-town groups also spend locally on event supplies and prizes, further supporting small businesses. “It’s important to draw in folks from out of town to see our area and all it offers, while giving them the opportunity to shop at local stores and eat at local restaurants,” he said.

The five largest economic impact generators in 2024–25 were the NIAA State Wrestling Tournament, Top Shelf Breeders, Fallon PRCA Rodeo, Cowboy Fast Draw, and the Fallon High School Rodeo. Together, those events accounted for more than $4.7 million in spending and 18,000 visitors. The next six highest-generating events added more than $3 million.

Overall, the complex hosted more than 400 daily rentals across its facilities last year, producing 247,000 total visits. Events were booked during 46 of the 52 weeks.

County staff report that 2025-26 is expected to be equally busy, with all of the top impact-driving events returning.