Thousands streamed to the 22nd annual Kumquat Festival in historic downtown Dade City on Jan. 26
In an open letter, John Moors, executive director of The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, recapped the event, and offered a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the army of volunteers who helped to pull it off.
“Over 400 vendors and sponsors sold and promoted their wares and services,” Moors said, in a news release.
“Our entertainment stage at the Historic Courthouse featured free live performances from wonderful local talent all day. Many of the shops and restaurants in Dade City, and the surrounding area, enjoyed their busiest day of the year,” Moors added.
On behalf of the chamber, its board and its staff, Moors extended “heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, sponsors (especially our headlining sponsor, AdventHealth Dade City), vendors and supporters.”
The festival was supported by a $60,000 marketing campaign and, in conjunction with the City of Dade City, Pasco County Tourism and Visit Florida — which all promoted Dade City and the area as a unique place to visit, Moors noted.
He credited Bobby Van Allen and Jason Sasser, the festival co-chairs, for leading the efforts of more than 200 volunteers.
Moors estimated that the event generated more than $1 million in economic activity, based on calculations derived from the State of Florida Economic Impact Multipliers.
Moors also credited a number of others for making the festival a success.
Dade City Police Chief Jim Walters and Lt. Bill Rowe co-chaired the event’s safety and security team, including support from multiple agencies, Moors noted.
Others pitching in included the Pasco High School and the Saint Leo University ROTC, who helped with parking.
The Pasco-Hernando State College Fire Cadets helped with numerous tasks, and Joyce and Rick Dodd organized our “Welcoming Committee” for the early morning volunteers, Moors wrote.
Plans are already starting for next year’s event.
Published January 30, 2019
