Current situation
The board cited multiple issues attributing to the pause of the 2024 festival, including the loss of its long-term carnival partner Crabtree, which sold to a larger entertainment organization, and provided both the entertainment and financial operation infrastructure for the festival.
"We were unable to identify a viable partner and overcome the challenges that a new vendor would bring to the festival," the news release states.
The board said there has also been an increase in event requirements, a decrease in volunteer leadership and economic strains.
"There have been challenges in maintaining a volunteer leadership base to plan and execute the requirements for a successful event. We do not have the funds to hire a professional management company. Although leadership overcame extreme challenges of freeze-outs, floods and even a pandemic, these all caused financial strain that have been difficult to overcome," the board stated in a news release.
The details
The festival—founded in 1987—is an annual tradition organized by nonprofit organization Sights & Sounds of Christmas, and is usually held in San Marcos Plaza Park. Sights & Sounds spans throughout two weekends in December and features carnival rides, a petting zoo, live entertainment, a Town of Bethlehem re-enactment and more.
Going forward
Although festival planning is paused, the board is continuing planning efforts for the 2024 Jingle Bell Run 5K and Kid-K.
"We have faith that we will bring the Sights & Sounds of Christmas Festival to the community in a more sustainable format. We will be engaging all stakeholders about the future and currently discussing options with the city of San Marcos to bring some format of holiday spirit to our community this Christmas. We truly appreciate everyone’s support and understanding during our rebuilding process," the news release states.
The city of San Marcos stated in an email to Community Impact that it will continue working closely with the Sights & Sounds board and other stakeholders to explore alternative ways to celebrate the upcoming holiday season.
"We are committed to finding solutions that will allow us to maintain the holiday cheer and community togetherness that this festival has fostered over the years," the email states.
