Residents of Tampa Bay area, looking forward to the 29th Annual Kumquat Festival, will have to mark a new date on their calendars. The event, originally planned for today, has been postponed due to an unprecedented cold front bringing high winds and potential snow flurries to the region. In a statement obtained by WFLA, officials expressed caution, emphasizing public safety as the paramount concern. "Festival organizers are working closely with the City of Dade City, public safety officials, and event partners to secure a new date that will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone," they said.
The much-awaited festival, hosting over 40,000 attendees in previous years, is now rescheduled for March 8. Notorious for its celebration of the kumquat fruit, a tiny citrus regarded as a local treasure, the festival's shift in date was confirmed by 10 Tampa Bay News, noting the decision was taken out of an abundance of caution for the safety of vendors, volunteers, sponsors, and attendees. Wind gusts anticipated to reach 35 to 40 mph necessitated the postponement.
Local businesses and growers are feeling the economic impact of the Kumquat Festival’s postponement. Held on the same day as Tampa’s Gasparilla Festival, the event is a major boost for the local economy. Greg Gude, General Manager of Kumquat Growers, told Bay News 9, “It’s just a shame that the weather’s coming in, but we understand you can’t be out on the asphalt in 50 mph wind gusts with little pop-up tents.” Despite the setback, organizers remain optimistic and are holding stock for the rescheduled festival.
Vicki Wiggins, president and CEO of the East Pasco Chamber of Commerce, noted that last year’s cold weather did not deter the 30,000 attendees. “So it’s a huge economical impact for our downtown,” she told Bay News 9. She called this year’s postponement disappointing but expressed hope that businesses could adapt. Kumquat Growers remained open over the weekend, offering their seasonal citrus to visitors despite the festival delay.
