Rolesville Parks announces 'Freedom in the Park' Juneteenth event at Millbrook Nature Park

Rolesville's Parks and Recreation department will host its third annual 'Freedom in the Park' Juneteenth celebration on Saturday, June 10, from 2:00 to 6:00 at Millbrook Nature Park, Director of Parks and Recreation June Green said on the June Mayor's Show.

"We're going to have inflatables, yard games, vendors selling things and of course our artists, which will always be our hit part of the event," Green said, adding that organizers expect about 10 food trucks, new artists and some returning favorites. "We actually moved it back" in time to reduce direct sun on performers and the audience, he said.

Green said the event will include food trucks (he named the Naked Empanada and a soul-food truck called Fancy Face as examples), local vendors selling crafts and services, and a stronger local-artist presence this year, including a live band performing instead of artists singing over tracks. He emphasized the event is "for all ages and all demographics" and framed Juneteenth as a community-wide opportunity "to learn about the history and actually learn some of the culture."

Organizers advised attendees to bring water and dress in light clothing because of summer heat; seating is available in the amphitheater and visitors may bring lawn chairs. Green also noted the town received an accessibility grant that has helped fund park improvements and invited residents to visit Millbrook Nature Park to see recent renovations, including handicap features and closer parking for events.

The department did not provide a total budget or construction timeline for park improvements on the show. Green said the event is intended to grow community participation but did not offer attendance projections. The mayor encouraged residents to attend and closed the Parks & Recreation segment by thanking Green and staff.