St. Louis is hosting the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships at the Enterprise Center, aiming to showcase the downtown area and attract future major events to the city.

The event in St. Louis draws athletes, families, and fans ahead of the Olympics, with junior and novice competitions also taking place at the Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights.

City officials, led by Mayor Cara Spencer, say the championships will support city services—police, infrastructure, and overall vibrancy—by boosting the economy and maintaining a welcoming environment.

Officials anticipate about 5,000 unique visitors over the week, with total economic impact near $20 million, direct spending around $14 million, and roughly $1.2 million in tax revenue.

Participants and supporters describe a welcoming atmosphere, highlighting St. Louis attractions like the Gateway Arch and Winterfest as part of the visitor experience.

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department plans heightened visibility and rapid response to ensure safety, though staffing specifics have not been released.

Competition for junior and novice levels continues at Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights as of Tuesday evening.

Local leadership notes a crime decline and pledges increased police presence downtown to keep the event safe and vibrant.

The championships occur as part of a broader international context, with competitions marking the path to the Milan 2026 Winter Olympics.

Beyond skating, St. Louis is preparing for additional tourism with the NCAA men's basketball tournament anticipated to arrive at the Enterprise Center soon, potentially boosting visitor numbers.

The city’s bid to host major events continues, with a track record of success and potential bids for the 2028 Olympic marathon trials, NCAA championships, and the 2030 figure skating championships.

Overall, officials project significant local economic benefits, including increased hotel occupancy and momentum in tourism alongside the event's direct spending and tax revenue.