There are reports that the unique two-hour happy hour at Spanish Springs Town Square is being cut in half.
Dating back to the days of Harold Schwartz, the founder of The Villages, Spanish Springs Town Square’s happy hour has lasted from 5 to 7 p.m. The happy hours at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square and Brownwood Paddock Square run from 5 to 6 p.m.
The change, which would reportedly take place June 1, would bring Spanish Springs in line with the other two town squares. It would make sense to make the change while the snowbirds are up north.
The bar huts currently charge $4 for a can of Budweiser, Michelob Ultra, Coors Light and Miller Light. A non-alcoholic O’Doul’s or a Heineken run $4.50. A medium draft Bud Light or Yuengling costs $3 and a large costs $5.50. A small glass of wine costs $5 and a large glass of wine runs $7.
News of the change at Spanish Springs has had tongues wagging.
“It’s the kids! All about money,” said Villager Stan Swies, known for dressing up as Donald Trump at Villagers for Trump events.
Another Villager said Schwartz, whose likeness is prominent at Spanish Springs Town Square, would not approve of a broken promise.
“The Villages founder wanted this to be an affordable retirement community for retirees on a fixed income,” said Jean Ricciuto.
She said the happy hour cut is about the “almighty” dollar.
