LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- Millions of dollars are expected to flow into the Las Cruces economy from folks participating in the Whole Enchilada softball tournament this weekend.

A total of 11 fields will be hopping with more than 3,000 people playing softball.

Nearly 30 years ago, it started as 14 teams. Today, there are 257 teams in all from as far away as Michigan.

“Everyone's going to be having a very good time with a lot of cooking out and a lot of camping out,” said Bert Frederick, State USSSA director.

Thousands will also stay in hotels and will spend money in local restaurants.

“I think we're bringing in about 7,000 people from out of town. The west side of El Paso sees a lot of the business also.

“We’re probably going to hit Hooters or Farley’s restaurants. I heard of a lot of good places to eat here that has Mexican food,” said Charles Olona from Gold Canyon, Ariz.

“I came with about 13 guys and we're all staying at one hotel. We’ll just hang out there and play some ball," said Jeremy Sirios from Ignacio, Colo.

And while all the spending is going on, Las Cruces will bring in a few bucks.

“From the research that I've had, it brings in $3 million to the city of Las Cruces for this weekend. It turns around into about $100,000 for the city general fund," said Frederick.

“You know for a small town like this, it's probably one of the things that keeps them going,” said Roni Madrid from Phoenix.

Many are forgetting the nation's financial troubles and just kicking back.

It’s really nice to forget about all that stuff and we were a little fortunate this time because we got some girls that do some fundraising and help bring some money in,” said Debbie Wilmoth of Phoenix.

The city fields will be active until Sunday evening.