January 27, 2020

Letter to the Editor

On behalf of the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, our Board of Directors and staff would like to offer a heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, sponsors (especially our Headlining Sponsor, AdventHealth Dade City), vendors and supporters of the 23^rd Annual Kumquat Festival held on Saturday, January 25^th in Historic Downtown Dade City.

Once again, our community pulled together and hosted a fabulous event.  Tens of thousands of people came from all over the Tampa Bay region – and beyond – residents, winter visitors and tourists joined in the fun.  Over 400 vendors and sponsors sold and promoted their wares and services.  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. 

This year’s Festival was supported by a $60,000 marketing campaign and, in conjunction with the City of Dade City, Florida’s Sports Coast and Visit Florida, which promoted Dade City and our area as a unique place to visit!

Bobby Van Allen and Jason Sasser, Festival Co-Chairs, worked their magic, with the leadership and assistance of over 200 dedicated volunteers, produced an event that generated upwards of $1 million in economic activity. (State of Florida Economic Impact Multipliers)

City of Dade City Police Chief James Walters and Lieutenant Bill Rowe co-chaired the Safety and Security team, which included multi-agency support from across Pasco County, and ensured the well being of all involved. Pasco High School and Saint Leo University ROTC jumped in to assist with parking, Pasco Hernando State College Police & Fire Cadets helped with numerous tasks, and Mary Beth Lumbra organized our “Welcoming Committee” for the early morning volunteers.

The 24^th  Annual Kumquat Festival will be held on Saturday, January 30^th, 2021.  Planning for our next Festival will begin this February, if you would like to be involved as a volunteer, sponsor or vendor please contact us and visit www.kumquatfestival.org.

Thanks once again to our community, volunteers and partners.  You are the best!!

John Moors, Executive Director