Despite major flooding that left parts of Donnelly Street collapsed and impassable, Downtown Mount Dora remains open for business, with city leaders and merchants urging residents and visitors to come out and support local shops, restaurants and events this weekend.

“We’ve all heard the news by now and yes, Mount Dora had up to 17 inches of rain on Sunday and Monday,” the Mount Dora Area Chamber of Commerce said in a statement. “However, only a few roads that lead into our Historic Downtown area have been affected. No matter where you are coming from, we assure you we are accessible. Please avoid the areas with blue circles and come and enjoy our town, support our businesses and have FUN! See you soon!”

The Chamber has released a map of alternate routes into the downtown area to help visitors navigate around the closures. The goal, they say, is to keep traffic flowing into the heart of the city, where local shops and restaurants rely heavily on seasonal foot traffic.

Businesses across the area are echoing the same message — Downtown Mount Dora is open.

“Downtown Mount Dora is OPEN and ready for you!” KKO Chocolate posted. “Some roads may be closed, but your favorite local businesses are here and ready for you. Come walk, eat, shop, and visit us for something sweet — your support keeps our community strong!”

Others, like Butcher’s Nook Mt. Dora, say that while the damage has been tough to see, the town’s spirit hasn’t wavered.

“Mt. Dora, we’re still standing strong!” the shop shared on social media. “After the wild rainfalls and some serious road damage, we know things look a little rough out there. But please know — we’re OPEN and fully functioning here in Downtown Mount Dora! Our small businesses, our teams, and our families all depend on this busy season, and we’re not letting a few potholes stop the good vibes.”

Despite the flooding, the Mount Dora Plant and Garden Fair is still set to take place this weekend, Nov. 1–2, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Donnelly Park. The free event will feature vendors and nurseries from across the state selling plants, garden décor, and locally made art.

With detours in place and cleanup efforts continuing, city officials and business owners are encouraging residents to shop local and help keep Mount Dora’s downtown thriving through the recovery.