Stamping Ground commission approves 2026 events calendar framework, cancels fireworks over safety and cost

The Stamping Ground City Commission met in special session on Feb. 28, 2026, to set dates and high-level logistics for the city’s 2026 events calendar, including neighborhood parades, seasonal festivals and a series of concerts and movie nights. Mayor Jennifer Jones presided and City Clerk Peggy Angel recorded the minutes; all commissioners were present.

Commissioners established an initial schedule that runs from April’s Easter Egg Hunt through a Dec. 12 Christmas Parade and evening Christmas Market. The commission noted a small existing balance — "$250 left from the bank donation" — that may seed summer events. Fire Commissioner Dale Perry advised that a professional fireworks display would cost about $5,000 and that there is no suitable, safe firing location within city limits; the commission decided not to hold fireworks and discussed reallocating those funds for other activities and consulting Attorneys Hoffman and Osborne about making $1,000 available per event.

Why it matters: the calendar sets the basic structure for community gatherings that rely on volunteer coordination, vendor permits and temporary street closures. Commissioners assigned outreach tasks for vendors, music and permits, and flagged encroachment/road-closure permit needs for parade and run events. The commission voted 5–0 to adjourn the special meeting at 1:30 p.m.; minutes will be approved at the March 24, 2026 meeting.