“Orange Crush” expected to draw thousands to Jax Beach in June

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — One of the most popular beach parties for college students and young people is set to happen in Jacksonville this June.

Orange Crush has previously been held in Savannah on Tybee Island for years, drawing up to 10,000 people.

But now it’s moving south, and leadership at Jacksonville Beach are preparing for the event’s arrival.

Asif Hussain can be found soaking up the sun’s rays on Jax Beach.

“We’re from Charlotte so we don’t have any beaches close to us, so we drove here to Jacksonville to enjoy the beaches here,” he told Action News Jax.

Jax Beach city leaders are preparing for a busy week in June, as they expect thousands of people like Hussain for Orange Crush.

“We’re optimistic that we’re getting communication going early enough so that we can make sure that we stay ahead of any potential issues that may arise with people not knowing the rules of the beaches,” Jax Beach mayor Chris Hoffman said.

Jax Beach police will brief the city council Monday evening at 6:00 p.m.

There is concern about the event though, as Hoffman calls the event “loosely organized,” but says city leaders and police are working together with the Orange Crush event organizers.

Hoffman says she doesn’t expect overcrowding, remarking on Jacksonville’s large beaches.

“Fourth of July, Sea and Sky, this is something that our police departments, all three beaches, we’re used to doing, anticipating, and we’ll be prepared for,” Hoffman said.

Hussain thinks Orange Crush is a great idea for Jax Beach. He’s hoping enough people will be vaccinated against COVID-19 by the summer.

“I think all the restrictions should be gone by then, so it’ll be a fun time, too, congregate with people all on the beach,” Hussain said.

He’s looking forward to more events like Orange Crush.

RELATED STORY: Questions, controversy ahead of Orange Crush Festival in Jacksonville Beach

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