JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2014 Duval Day once again transformed Jacksonville\u2019s historic Moncrief neighborhood into a vibrant celebration of community, culture and local pride, drawing thousands of visitors for the annual tradition. <\/p>\n
Long before the crowds arrived, vendors lined the streets and filled the park, preparing food, setting up booths and getting ready to welcome attendees from across the city. <\/p>\n
The event featured a wide variety of food, from soul food and seafood to refreshing drinks. <\/p>\n
\u201cChicken and fries, fish and fries, Jungle Juice, LeLe Juice, lemonade, seafood bowls,\u201d said Charlita Carter of Keke\u2019s Cocktails and Refreshers, listing some of the menu favorites available throughout the day. <\/p>\n
For many vendors, participating in Duval Day is about more than selling food. Toneet Nickerson of Yes Yes Soul Fusion Food Truck said the event provides an opportunity to reconnect with the community. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re excited to be here, be a part of the community and give something back,\u201d Nickerson said. <\/p>\n
Food vendors traveled from across Florida and even from out of state to participate, but many also have deep roots in the Moncrief neighborhood. <\/p>\n
\u201cI grew up right here on Moncrief, on 30th and Chase,\u201d Carter said. \u201cThis is home to me. Everybody comes out, has a good time and shows love.\u201d <\/p>\n
Thomas Brown of Sparkk House Cafe shared similar sentiments, recalling his long history with the event. <\/p>\n
\u201cI grew up as well. I was the cook for the actual event for the first five years, and we were giving away the food for free then,\u201d Brown said. <\/p>\n
For Brown, returning each year feels like a family reunion, bringing together neighbors, old friends and families from every part of Jacksonville. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe promote peace, and it\u2019s just good to see people from every side of town and from out of town come here just to show love to Duval and love Duval,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n
In addition to celebrating the community, the event also provides valuable exposure for local entrepreneurs. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis time is hard for small businesses, so it\u2019s very great to have this opportunity to be seen,\u201d said Brittany Gamble of Sparkk House Cafe. <\/p>\n
As another successful Duval Day came to a close, many vendors were already looking ahead to next year\u2019s celebration, eager to once again reunite with the community that continues to make the event a Jacksonville tradition. <\/p>\n
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