Monticello Freedom Fest scheduled for July 3 at Lodge Park with fireworks and concerts

As the sun began to set on a warm June evening, the Monticello City Council gathered to discuss upcoming community events and express gratitude for recent achievements. The meeting, held on June 23, 2025, was marked by a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.

One of the highlights was the announcement of the Monticello Freedom Fest, scheduled for Thursday, July 3, at Lodge Park, starting at 4 PM. Residents were encouraged to attend, although officials noted that parking would be limited. To ease congestion, attendees were advised to consider taking a shuttle from Monticello High School, supporting the music boosters in the process. The festivities will also include an open house at Eli Fields, featuring fireworks and family-friendly activities.

In addition to the Freedom Fest, the council shared details about the annual Reds, White, and Blues concert, set for Friday, July 11, at 6 PM on the Allerton Park Gatehouse Lawn. This event promises to be a highlight of the summer, bringing together music lovers from across the region.

The meeting also served as a platform for appreciation, particularly for the successful rededication of Private First Class Robert C. Burke Park, which took place the previous Saturday. Council members expressed their gratitude to city staff and volunteers who contributed to the event's success, highlighting the efforts of Terry Summers and others who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. The warm day was made more pleasant by the staff's attentiveness, ensuring that attendees were well cared for with refreshments.

As the meeting transitioned to business matters, the sense of community pride lingered in the air, reminding everyone present of the importance of collaboration and support in making Monticello a vibrant place to live. With exciting events on the horizon and a dedicated team of city staff, the future looks bright for this close-knit community.