Protests occur for a plethora of reasons and, in recent months, there has been an influx in the frequency of protests in Washington, D.C. regarding a number of issues. While these protests aim to invoke change, reform and political action, and can sometimes be disruptive, they also bring an unexpected benefit for D.C. — tourism.

Large events, concerts and gatherings are of great importance to destinations hoping to draw in tourism and, although much different from planned tourism events, protests are seen as an unexpected opportunity for tourism officials to monetize the large gatherings of outside visitors to the area.

This past weekend, the March For Our Lives anti-gun violence protest took place; officials of the march estimated a total 800,000 anti-gun violence protesters participated, after forecasting a total of about 500,000 would attend. The march comes after the mass shooting in Parkland, Fla., that killed 17 people and wounded 14 more — mostly high school students.

More than 800 smaller, local marches took place in other U.S. cities and around the world, including New York City, Chicago, Seattle and Los Angeles — boosting tourism and local business in those areas as well. Metro officials in the D.C. area reported about 334,000 trips on the system by 4 p.m. Saturday. The Women’s March last year generated 597,000 trips by the same time.

While tourism boards have little to do with the organization of marches and protests, these events have an impact on hotels, airlines and dining in the area. It is a tricky thing to plan for, as many companies do not wish to make political statements, but do wish to bring in business while the crowds gather.

Destination DC, the city’s official tourism board, includes information about the march and other protests on its website, but it is not made prominent. Users looking for the information can search to find dates and locations. Its goal is not to advertise the schedule for marches and protests or to announce road closures but to make sure visitors are aware of how to get around and where to go, eat and stay.

Delta Air Lines, in comparison, took a different approach and donated three round-trip charter flights that allowed students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School to participate in the march. Other brands made public statements on the issues as well, but what effect the political involvement of these brands has on business remains to be seen.

Have you recently attended a march or protest in a major U.S. city? Email us and share your story at letters@globaltravelerusa.com.