That darn economy is to blame for the cancellation of the 2009 Winter Pride Tampa Bay Festival.

Zeke Fread, spokesperson for Winter Pride, noted this year’s lack of vendor participation lead to axing the event.

Only half of the $25,000 needed to hold the event was raised. The announcement sparked many to contact WP and offer their assistance but the decision will stand.

The celebration was to be held at Lopez Park on February 28.

In 2006, Hillsborough County decided to not recognize gay pride events. The area’s gay community responded with the first Winter Pride Festival in 2006.

Though WP might be a bust for this year the event remains on the calendar for 2010.

Damn that economy.