In Episode 004 of “ALL IN Johnson County" host Dr. Brad Miller welcomes Ken Kosky, the executive director of Festival Country Indiana,(https://www.festivalcountryindiana.com/) to discuss the role of tourism in Johnson County, Indiana. The conversation delves into the essential essence and impact of tourism and festivals in the community and explores the unique offerings of Johnson County. Here are the three key takeaway points from the episode:

1. Tourism as a Gateway to Economic Growth:

Ken Kosky highlights the significant role of tourism in Johnson County, emphasizing that tourism is the "front door to economic development." By showcasing the vibrant festivals, concert series, and local attractions, the community attracts visitors who may eventually turn into residents or entrepreneurs, subsequently driving economic growth. Ken emphasizes that by providing visitors with a remarkable experience, the community becomes a more attractive place for living and doing business, ultimately contributing to its economic prosperity.

2. Collaborative Community Efforts:

One of the remarkable aspects shared in the episode is the collaborative and inclusive nature of the community. Ken discusses how the success of Festival Country Indiana and the enhancement of Johnson County as a tourist destination are deeply rooted in partnerships and collaboration among various entities. The community's ability to work together and support each other's initiatives plays a significant role in realizing the vision of a thriving and appealing Johnson County. The partnerships with local businesses, parks, and other community entities have been vital in bringing tourism-related ideas into fruition, leading to substantial positive impacts on the area's economic and social landscape.

3. Creating a Unique Experience:

The episode underscores the significance of creating a unique and appealing experience for both visitors and residents. Ken shares the strategies implemented to enhance the county's appeal, such as upgrading parks, sponsoring concert series, and nurturing a vibrant downtown atmosphere. Furthermore, the episode highlights the Eclipse Festival, a rare and extraordinary event that presents a significant opportunity for Johnson County to shine on a national stage. By leveraging the upcoming Eclipse Festival and other unique attractions, the community aims to draw attention and leave a lasting impression on visitors, fostering a desire to return and invest in the area.

Ultimately, the episode captures the community's dedication to leveraging tourism and festivals as catalysts for economic growth, showcasing the collaborative spirit that has led to the county's success, and emphasizing the efforts to create distinctive experiences that resonate with both visitors and residents. By nurturing a vibrant and inclusive environment, Johnson County continues to position itself as an attractive tourism destination and a desirable place to live, work, and invest.

Festival Country Indiana

66 S. Water St., Franklin, IN 46131

Phone number: 317-739-8600

https://www.festivalcountryindiana.com/

Follow Every Episode of the ALL IN Johnson County Podcast at 

https://allinjohnsoncounty.com/

Email Dr. Brad Miller

Brad@DrBradMiller.com