Rocky Mount Juneteenth celebrations set for Friday, Saturday

Despite financial cuts by the city of Rocky Mount, the 2026 Juneteenth Community Empowerment Festival will go forward with events set Friday and Saturday at three locations.

Mayor Sandy Roberson said in a recent phone interview that it’s great that the organizers are continuing the Juneteenth tradition they started years ago.

“It’s unfortunate the city didn’t have this money to fund that as well as a lot of other things this particular year, but it’s just not prudent for us to spend money in that way,” Roberson said.

“So, anytime I think that the community gets involved and puts together these festivals, it’s a good, positive thing,” he said.