Beach & Rec Crossing the Line?

I recently opened a small, locally owned ice cream and candy shop (The Jelly Beanery). In an attempt to promote my business at the Madison fireworks, I dressed up as an ice cream cone to hand out free lollipops and coupons for a free soft serve cone. Prior to starting I approached the police officers on site and asked if they foresaw any issues with handing out free candy and coupons to those enjoying the fireworks on public property. The police had no objections.

After about 20 minutes, I was approached by the police and a representative from the Beach & Recreation Department and was told that I was no longer allowed to continue. Apparently the town's Beach & Recreation Department took issue.

While I could go into detail on why this is a violation of my First Amendment rights and how this demonstrates how the town is a difficult place for small businesses, I won't. But taking candy away from kids-seriously?

Scott Gyllensten
Madison