Overview
- Organizers said they will not collect the $5 entry charge for the first two days because a city rule requires a 10‑day wait after council approval.
- City Council approved the fee to cover added fencing, metal-detector screening, and third‑party gate security after recent shootings at Market Square, and the 7–4 vote triggered the waiting period.
- The charge applies only during peak hours to visitors 13 and older, starting after 1 p.m. on weekends and on Battle of Flowers Friday, and after 6 p.m. on weekdays.
- City officials projected about $400,000 from ticket sales, including $37,500 for the city, but two free days now cloud the revenue outlook and refunds for early buyers have not been clarified.
- Market Square merchants warn the fee could cut foot traffic and effectively put a price on a public plaza, which they say would further strain businesses already dealing with construction disruptions.