SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve High Impact Request in the amount not to exceed $12,900.00 for the Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest, a family-focused holiday event at Coachman Park on December 20, 2025, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
The Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest is a new Downtown Clearwater holiday celebration designed to attract families, residents, and visitors to experience a festive winter wonderland at Coachman Park. The event will feature a full day of activities, local shopping, entertainment, and community engagement opportunities - creating a joyful holiday experience in the downtown district.
Event Details:
• Event Name: Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest
• Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025 (one-day event)
• Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Location: Coachman Park (The Green, Lower & Upper Plaza, Cleveland Street Extension, and Bay Walk Promenade)
• Expected Attendance: Approximately 3,000 attendees
Event Highlights:
• Gourmet food trucks featuring local cuisine
• Community vendors and local artisans
• Holiday-themed contests including Lil’ Miss and Sir Candy Cane for children
• Santa appearances and character photo opportunities
• Holiday crafts, live entertainment, and festive music
APPLICANT REQUEST & REPORT OUT:
The applicant is requesting $12,900 funding to cover direct production costs and city fees for the Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest.
Previous Event Success:
The applicant hosted the Fall Y’All Festival at Coachman Park, drawing approximately 5,000 attendees on Saturday, October 4, and 3,000 attendees on Sunday, October 5. The turnout exceeded expectations for a first-year event and generated excitement among vendors and attendees for future downtown events.
Marketing efforts included extensive promotion via Facebook, Instagram, and community networks, resulting in high engagement. Feedback from vendors and participants was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting organization, family-friendly activities, and community impact.
City staff collaboration and the Mayor’s participation further enhanced media coverage and community engagement.
JINGLE BELL FAMILY FUN FEST BUDGET & FUNDING CALCULATION:
• Total Expenses: $25,500.00
• Total Revenue: $9,500.00
Calculation for DDB Funding Request:
Total Expenses-Total Revenue=$16,000
DDB Eligible Expenses $12,900
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of funding not to exceed $12,900.00 for the Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest on December 20, 2025, to cover direct production costs and city fees. The applicant meets all DDB funding criteria under the DDB Grant Request Policy and Procedures.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
1829411-558600, Marketing
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
• 2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sectors.
• 2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local investment, supports eco-friendly enterprises, and encourages high-quality job growth.
• 2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
