The list of Hurricane Ian event cancelations in Southwest Florida continues to grow.
Many of the sites slated to host events have hurricane damage. Also, many of the organizers have suffered personal losses. It takes a tremendous amount of energy and resources to throw a big bash. Both of these things are in short supply in many instances. Priorities are shifting.
In addition, all eyes are fixed firmly on donating to storm recovery now. Most of the events listed here are fund raisers or have a fund raising element to them. While these organizations depend heavily on their annual events to fund vital programs and operations, their needs are also shifting following the storm.
Ian closed the islands
Take for instance CROW, the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, on Sanibel Island. The annual Taste of the Islands is a much anticipated event every November. At the time we are writing this, there is no word on when the barrier island will be open for business. In the meantime, the clinic is establishing an off island location to continue taking care of injured animals. The show must go on.
And finally, when it comes to attending big events, many Southwest Florida residents are just not ready to get out and celebrate. That time will come and when it does, we will embrace it with both arms. However, most event organizers feel now is still just a little too soon.
Click here to find more resources for hurricane recovery.
In the meantime, here are the current Hurricane Ian event cancelations. The list is continuously updated.