JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — Jacksonville Beach is preparing for what could be one of the busiest weekends in 2021.
Thousands of young people will be in town for the Orange Crush Festival, slated to begin next Friday —coupled with families who will also be celebrating the fathers and father figures in their lives.
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Action News Jax Courtney Cole spoke to one business about the steps they’re taking to prepare.
“For us, it’s business as usual,” said Tommy Walker. Walker is the general manager of Jax Beach Brunch Haus, although his staff know him as the Chief Inspiration Officer.
Walker said he feels blessed for all of the customers that have come through their doors and sat at their tables in 2021. He told Cole next weekend will be no different.
“We’re ready to be busy!” Walker said with a smile on his face.
Jax Beach Brunch Haus is a spot loved by many, and Walker expects to be busy during Orange Crush Weekend and Father’s Day.
“It’s [the pandemic] been tough on all the restaurants, we really feel. We’ve talked to a lot of our friends in the industry, and we know how tough it is. That’s why we really feel blessed to be doing the business we have been,” Walker said.
Walker said they decided to shut down one day a week to give everyone a break. He said he doesn’t take any of the business he receives for granted.
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Cole first told you in April about the festival coming to Jacksonville Beach.
According to the itinerary on OrangeCrushFestival.com, activities will also happen in Downtown Jacksonville, Southside and Huguenot Park, June 18 - June 20, 2021.
Cole reached out to some other local businesses slated to participate in Orange Crush, including The Justice Pub, Bliss Ultra Sports Lounge, Onyx Sports Bar & Lounge, Mascara Gentlemen’s Club to learn how they’re preparing. She is still waiting to hear back.
Orange Crush has previously been held in Savannah on Tybee Island for several years; the festival drew thousands of people.
According to the organizer’s website, the festival is relocating due to, “civil rights violations and political injustices.”
Cole reached out to Jacksonville Beach Mayor Chris Hoffman. She said she plans to release an update on Monday.