The American Bus Association announced Sept. 3 that Fiesta® San Antonio was its choice for the top event in the United States for 2010.

Fiesta in 2010 is to feature more than 100 events taking place around the city April 15 through 25.

“The attractiveness of Fiesta® San Antonio as a don’t-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for the Alamo City,” said Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, ABA’s president and CEO. “The real news here is that Fiesta has been recognized as a potential magnet for tourism dollars at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy.

“The honor gives San Antonio an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners.”

One overnight visit by a motorcoach group can leave from $5,000 to more than $13,000 in a local destination’s economy according to recent studies by George Washington University and Dunham and Associates. Those dollars are spent on lodging, meals, admissions, fees, shopping, souvenirs, services and local taxes. The full economic impact of Fiesta® San Antonio is $284 million.

The ABA selection committee chose Fiesta from among some 500 U.S. and Canadian events nominated by state and provincial tourism offices and convention and visitors bureas. Judges considered the event’s broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches, skill at handling large groups and other criteria.