SANFORD, Fla. – Jingle Jam survived cancellation because of city costs, but Sanford’s annual holiday festival couldn’t beat the weather.
Organizers with Sanford Main Street announced Thursday that they were canceling Saturday’s Jingle Jam because of the potential of heavy rain and severe weather.
“The team at Sanford Main Street has diligently evaluated all potential options, assessing every aspect of hosting the festival amidst the dangerous weather conditions forecasted this weekend,” the business group wrote in a news release. “However, our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our community has led us to make this difficult choice.”
News 6 meteorologists say a storm off the Gulf coast will bring severe wind gusts and widespread rain Saturday, with the evening hours seeing the worst of it. Up to 4 inches of rain are predicted across Central Florida, with 6 inches or more possible in isolated areas, heightening the chance of flooding.
The popular street festival was canceled in August as Sanford Main Street struggled with rising costs by the city and increasing regulations. However, in November the festival was back on the schedule for Saturday, Dec. 16, after the city’s community redevelopment board approved $10,500 toward costs.
“Jingle Jam, especially in December, is one of the highlight weeks,” said Kevin Obrian, general manager at Zorba’s Greek restaurant. “People come from Orlando. They come from Kissimmee. (It) definitely attracts more people.”
Stephanie Richards, the owner of The Treehouse Antiques, told News 6 that it’s been a tough year, so they were hoping for a large turnout at the event.
“We actually hired help to come in this weekend because we anticipated between 30,000 and 50,000 people coming into our town,” she said. “It’s one of our biggest events we do every year.”
While the cancellation of Jingle Jam is disappointing, Sanford Main Street promises the festival will return next year.
“We are dedicated to creating unforgettable moments and fostering a sense of togetherness through our future endeavors,” the news release said.
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