JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The cool, laid-back sounds jazz fill the air Saturday. "We just love the music," said Pat Maddox.
"The beats, the melody, it just lulls me in," said Dale Martinez.
But in 48 hours it will be replaced with the patter of rain. "It looks like a beautiful day to me," said Martinez.
"As long as you don't get struck by lightning, you are good," said Maddox.
150,000 people are expected to surround four stages this holiday weekend. It's a tradition that has brought Pat and Tom out for many years. "It is smooth and relaxing, and we enjoy watching the people," said Tom.
The music also brings in $20 millionto the area. "Last night was excellent. A lot of people came thirsty, and they left happy," said drink vendor Ryan Kelly.
But this year the strums and beats on the stage and rings at the register could be cut short because of Tropical Storm Beryl.
"There seems to be no chance that it can turn into a hurricane. And we can handle 40 to 45 miles per hour winds," said Tom.
City leaders announced late Saturday afternoon the outdoor venues would be closed on Sunday due to the threat from Beryl. Mayor Alvin Brown wanted to give crews time to break down their equipment.
"That would be upsetting. That would be sad.We are hoping the rain holds off," said Pam.
"I don't think the weather is going to bother us one bit. If anything it will make tonight's crowd bigger until the weather starts," said vendor, Michelle Adams.
For now, fans and vendors hope the big finish at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival will come from the stage and not the sky.
