Rainy weather didn’t scare off the tens of thousands of people who gathered in downtowns across Central Florida Saturday.
Local businesses are also relieved attendees didn’t run away because it means better business for them. One business owner who spoke to News 13 was at the event in downtown, Kissimmee where 20,000 people showed up.
“Just like any major event that comes to town. You don’t look for the effects on the day of the event, but you look for the effects later on, like the people who will come back and become more of a customer than just a one-time shopper,” said Mark Detweiler, Big Toho Marina Bait and Tackle Owner.
“If it is a part of what causes people to come to our community, want to live in our community, spend their money in our community then hey that’s a big victory for everybody,” said Kissimmee Mayor Jim Sawn.
Shoppers also had plenty to choose from at Lake Eola Saturday. More than 100,000 people crowded the lake for the annual fireworks show. Dozens of food vendors were on display, as well as local boutiques.
“We got a lot of history, we got a lot of food, we got family. We got fun, we got smiles,” said Anthony Lewis, Lake Eola attendee.
While there was some great food, the fireworks were the real show stopper.
“Being an immigrant means freedom. It means ability to move forward in life. America is great, so obviously we are here to celebrate that,” said Abel Correa, Lake Eola attendee.