Weather Forced Cancellation of Flossmoor Fest

—from the Village of Flossmoor

On Saturday, September 12, the Village of Flossmoor made the difficult decision to cancel Flossmoor Fest in the middle of set-up. With rain accumulation of one inch, the decision to cancel the children’s activities in Flossmoor Park was a must. Event planners had to consider the field conditions for the set-up of the rides and booths as well as the potential damage to park property and risk to public safety. Given all of those conditions, the park activities had to be cancelled at 9 am.

The Fest Committee then turned to the condition of the downtown area, and the ability to host only a downtown event. As of 10 am, the weather was still unfavorable to safely set up power and the stage. Forecasts called for rain until mid-to-late afternoon and then clear skies but cooler temps and the potential for winds up to 14mph. Looking at future radar reports, a line of lake effect rains were moving north to south over Lake Michigan in an unusual weather pattern we normally do not experience with rain. Consultation with public safety officials, event planners and vendors occurred to determine what portion of the fest could resume and at what time. Consideration was given to the various costs to vendors and the Village to hold out until mid-afternoon to make another decision. Factors considered included staffing for the event and the booths, notice to contract holders, continuing to block parking for downtown businesses while no fest activities were occurring, attendance if the weather remained unfavorable, not to mention the public’s safety. The decision was made to cancel.

By early afternoon, the lake effect storms that event planners saw on the radar had dissipated, and we were looking at sunny skies. Regrettably, hind-sight would have led us to a different decision. Flossmoor Fest is a year’s worth of planning and preparation.

“The decision to cancel was not quick or easy,” said Mayor Braun. “While the Board and I are disappointed that the event could not occur as planned, the decision was with the intention of maintaining your safety. The Village Board and I look forward to seeing everyone at Flossmoor Fest 2016!” The Village has only cancelled for weather two of the 15 years of the Fest.

The Village Board is very proud to host this community block party every year showcasing our businesses and service organizations. Please give consideration to shopping locally and supporting our businesses and fest sponsors; they are important to the vibrancy of our community.