Hastings, nestled in St. Johns County, is gearing up for its beloved annual Christmas parade on December 13th, and community members are invited to join the festivities free of charge. However, a sinister twist has emerged this year, as county officials have issued warnings about a scam targeting parade-goers.
In a surprising turn of events, some individuals have been falsely claiming that attendance requires a fee. This deceitful attempt to capitalize on the holiday spirit has left many residents concerned, prompting officials to reaffirm that the parade remains a cost-free event for all attendees.
Among the excited locals is Jasmine Helms, a regular at the parade who cherishes the opportunity to share the experience with her younger siblings. “It’s really fun,” Helms expressed, reflecting on the joy and tradition of finding her spot along the sidewalk to catch the festive procession.
While she often enjoys the parade from the sidelines, Helms fondly recalls her experience participating as a middle school student. The parade, a cherished community event, continues to be a highlight of the holiday season in Hastings, bringing together families and friends to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
Helms finds a piece of the sidewalk to set up on annually to take in the Hastings Christmas Parade.
Although she takes it in from the sidelines most years, she did have a chance to participate in it when she was in Middle School.
“I was in the band, and we got to come out and play in the parade one year,” said Helms. “I played the flute and loved it.”
Helms couldn’t believe it when she heard about a scam to charge admission for the parade.
“It’s meant to bring people together,” said Helms. “It’s a free thing. Everyone can get out of their house to come to it. I think it’s awful someone is trying to charge for something like that.”
St. Johns County posted about the scam, saying people on social media have tried to trick followers of the county’s page into sending money to participate in the event.
“We certainly don’t want anyone in our community to be taken advantage of by others trying to capitalize on any ill-intent that they have,” said St. Johns County Spokesperson Wayne Larson.
Larson says the parade is free for people walking it and spectators.
This isn’t the first event issue in St. Johns County this Christmas season; St. Augustine Beach officials warned folks about flyers circulating around asking for vendors for Christmas on the Coast over the weekend.
The City of St. Augustine Beach posted the event was not permitted and could be a scam, urging caution before sharing personal information.
“If anyone has any questions or concerns about what they think might be illegal requests for money to participate in a county event, they’re always encouraged to contact the county,” said Larson.
Helms will be back out to the Hastings Christmas Parade this year to pick out her favorite float alongside her family, and she won’t pay anything to do it.
“It’s a great thing that happens,” said Helms. “People around here love it.”
The Hastings Christmas Parade will go down Main Street at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13.
So remember the lawn chair, and forget about having to pay for tickets.
