Know-How Exchange : Advertising/PR

I work with a multi-events facility that operates 365 days a year with over 760 event days each year. We bring in a ton of events which are participant driven and, in turn, bring in a bunch of people to the community. Those participants get hotel rooms, meals, fuel, shop in local stores, etc. The estimated impact on the local economy (as provided by an independent study) is $5.9 million annually. I'm searching for a way to ensure that the local business that fill up from an event (hotels and restaurants most, but other as well) know that their customers are coming from events we host. The events may not be advertised locally as participants may come from other areas. I hope this makes sense. I've gotten some great help from Marketingprofs members in past and I'm hoping for some great ideas to spread the word about our events and activities.