Duval Day Moves to Clanzel T. Brown Park

News Summary

Jacksonville will host its 10th annual Duval Day at Clanzel T. Brown Park, after the city denied permits for the original location due to overcrowding and security concerns. With over 2,000 attendees last year, organizers aim to maintain community traditions while ensuring safety and compliance. City Councilman Rahman Johnson is working with organizers to facilitate the event’s success at the new venue, as community members emphasize its importance in promoting unity.

Jacksonville will host its 10th annual Duval Day at Clanzel T. Brown Park on July 12, 2025, following the City of Jacksonville’s denial of permits for the event’s original location on North Myrtle Avenue. The city cited overcrowding, illegal parking, and inadequate security measures as primary reasons for the permit rejection.

Last year’s Duval Day attracted over 2,000 attendees, far exceeding the capacity allowed for neighborhood block parties, which is capped at 500 participants. The permit application was submitted 76 days prior to the event, falling short of the 90-day submission requirement. Furthermore, the application lacked key logistical details such as a road closure plan, restroom locations, a police presence, and stage layout, which contributed to the city’s decision.

Duval Day, created nearly a decade ago by comedian Lil Duval and his friend Mr. Manns, has evolved from a small community block party into a substantial event attracting crowds from across Jacksonville. The spirit of the day focuses on community engagement, with traditional activities like grilling and cooking that bring residents together. Mr. Manns acknowledged that while the event’s growth has been positive, it has made them “victims of their own success,” expressing hope to one day return to its original venue.

City Councilman Rahman Johnson has been actively involved in addressing the venue complications, working alongside the event organizers to find a suitable alternative. He has emphasized the need to maintain the essence and vision of Duval Day while ensuring the event remains safe and accessible for the community. Johnson has stated that he is in ongoing communication with both the organizers and city partners to facilitate the necessary arrangements.

The Office of Sports and Entertainment formally notified the organizers of the permit denial, highlighting past issues such as illegal parking along state roads, which had impacted local businesses during previous events due to overcrowding. Despite the challenges faced, the mission of Duval Day to give back to the community remains a top priority for its organizers, who are committed to fostering community spirit and connections.

In light of the changes, community members have voiced the importance of this event in strengthening local ties and promoting unity. Local leaders and community figures have been encouraged to experience Duval Day firsthand to better appreciate its significance in Jacksonville.

As the countdown begins for the 10th anniversary, organizers are set to preserve the traditions that have made Duval Day a beloved event while adapting to ensure compliance with city regulations. The relocation to Clanzel T. Brown Park represents a new chapter for the event, with hopes that it will continue to thrive and meet the needs of its growing audience.

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Additional Resources

• News4JAX: Duval Day Finds New Home
• Wikipedia: Duval County, Florida
• News4JAX: City Denies Permits for Duval Day
• Google Search: Duval Day Jacksonville
• Action News JAX: Lil Duval Day Permits Denied
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
• Jacksonville.com: No Kings Day Protest
• Google News: Duval Day