HASTINGS, Fla. — In an unexpected turn of events, an attempt to dampen the festive spirit in Hastings has emerged, but it’s not the work of the Grinch!

The county’s leadership is alerting community members about a fraudulent scheme that falsely charges an entry fee for next weekend’s Hastings Christmas Parade.

“It’s really fun, I get to bring out my little brothers and everything,” shared Jasmine Helms, an enthusiastic attendee who never misses the annual parade.

Every year, Helms secures her spot on the sidewalk to enjoy the vibrant festivities of the Hastings Christmas Parade.

Although she takes it in from the sidelines most years, she did have a chance to participate in it when she was in Middle School.

“I was in the band, and we got to come out and play in the parade one year,” said Helms. “I played the flute and loved it.”

Helms couldn’t believe it when she heard about a scam to charge admission for the parade.

“It’s meant to bring people together,” said Helms. “It’s a free thing. Everyone can get out of their house to come to it. I think it’s awful someone is trying to charge for something like that.”

St. Johns County posted about the scam, saying people on social media have tried to trick followers of the county’s page into sending money to participate in the event.

“We certainly don’t want anyone in our community to be taken advantage of by others trying to capitalize on any ill-intent that they have,” said St. Johns County Spokesperson Wayne Larson.

Larson says the parade is free for people walking it and spectators.

This isn’t the first event issue in St. Johns County this Christmas season; St. Augustine Beach officials warned folks about flyers circulating around asking for vendors for Christmas on the Coast over the weekend.

The City of St. Augustine Beach posted the event was not permitted and could be a scam, urging caution before sharing personal information.

“If anyone has any questions or concerns about what they think might be illegal requests for money to participate in a county event, they’re always encouraged to contact the county,” said Larson.

Helms will be back out to the Hastings Christmas Parade this year to pick out her favorite float alongside her family, and she won’t pay anything to do it.

“It’s a great thing that happens,” said Helms. “People around here love it.”

The Hastings Christmas Parade will go down Main Street at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13.

So remember the lawn chair, and forget about having to pay for tickets.