Title
Discuss 2018 Christmas Activities
Body
BACKGROUND:
This past year completed the 26th year of the Tour of Lights. The past four years vehicles and donation totals are listed below:
Year
Vehicles
Donations
2017
16,576
$50,872.64
2016
18,381
$60,584.98
2015
13,961
$35,534.95
2014
13,764
$39,421.79
DISCUSSION:
There has been discussion about the possibility of changing the Tour of Lights for 2018. The following are ideas for Christmas activities beginning in 2018. The options listed below can be a la carte or combined to create a large Christmas event.
Tour of Lights: The concept stays the same but the route is reversed with vehicles entering at the Ford Road entrance of the Historical Park. Reversing the route would simplify the flow of traffic. The Tour of Lights would continue to be free with a $5 suggested donation to local non-profits.
Budget Estimate
City Revenue Potential
Non-Profit Revenue Potential
$250,000
$0
$50,000-$60,000
Walking Tour: Create a lighted "trail" for guests to walk through the lights. The proposed path would include: Gussie Field Watterworth Park (Gussie) walking trail, Gussie pavilion & amphitheater, rose gardens, Jeff Fuller Rose Garden and The Grove @ Mustang Crossing. This would create a longer stay for guests and more interaction with the displays. The Walking Tour would be free but non-profits could volunteer with donation boxes at each "entry" area.
Budget Estimate
City Revenue Potential
Non-Profit Revenue Potential
$125,000
$0
$25,000
Skating Rink: Partner with the StarCenter to host an outdoor skating rink. The skating rink would be located on the grass lot adjacent to the StarCenter. The rink would be rented by the City and operated by the StarCenter and profits would be split. To incorporate non-profit groups and drive traffic for less popular nights, non-profit groups would be awarded a night (Monday-Thursday) and a portion of the proceeds from that night would go towards that group.
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