Organisers say Hastings Blossom Festival drew crowds of 25,000 people to city centre
The Hastings Blossom Festival in New Zealand saw a successful turnout of 25,000 attendees, marking an increase from the previous year. The event featured a parade with 53 floats and various community-focused activities.
Why it matters
Local festivals are vital for regional economic stimulation and fostering community cohesion in smaller urban centers.
This year's Blossom Festival theme, Great Things Grow Here, was celebrated with floats, hats and more. Photo / Hastings District Council
The heyday crowds of the Blossom Festival are returning, with Hastings District Council counting 25,000 people on the streets of the city’s CBD for the latest iteration.
That would mean Saturday’s event attracted 3000 more festival-goers than last year’s 75th Blossom Parade anniversary event.
This year’s theme, Great Things Grow Here, was celebrated with Blossom Parade floats, performances, activities, competitions and entertainment.
Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum said days like the festival were great for bringing people into town, creating activity for local businesses and giving people a chance to spend time together in the heart of Hastings.
“What I loved was seeing so many different parts of our community enjoying the day together.”
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