By Emily-Rose Toohey
Jumpers and Jazz in July 2022 officially came to a close on Sunday and the organisers are reflecting on the 10-day festival, which captivated locals and tourists alike.
One of the organisers, Bette Bonney, said the team got a lot of positive verbal feedback from people regarding the festival’s success.
“People were coming up to us and congratulating us on a wonderful festival,” Bette said.
“They loved the colour, the vibe and the wonderful music, and expressed their desire to come back next year.”
Although attendance numbers are not finalised at this stage, Bette said it was obvious the event drew lots of people by just looking at the thousands wandering the streets each weekend.
“The event’s highlight is always getting that sense of appreciation from the people, and when we see them come and enjoy themselves – so many people were dancing,” she said.
“The iconic parts of this festival were the craft, tree jumpers, Yarntopians’ installation, and the bell tower, which people have appreciated and enjoyed.”
However, Bette said the event was a team effort from sponsors and especially volunteers, who spent hours making the festival what it became.
“We can’t do the festival without them,” she said.
“A lot of hard work went into setting up the streets and it’s exhausting but rewarding.
“Visitors especially loved the quirkiness and the crispy mornings.”
Despite intermittent rain which Bette said put a slight damper on Sunday’s markets, she was happy with how the festival went and particularly enjoyed the high-class music acts who performed throughout the festival.
“I encourage people to come back again,” she said.
