Greenville Celebrates Ray Charles’ Legacy at Annual Picnic
The town of Greenville in Madison County, Florida, hosted its 6th annual Ray Charles Picnic at Haffye Hays Park. The event honored the influential musician, who grew up in Greenville, with music and celebrated his legacy. A life-sized statue of…

Tallahassee Thomasville, FL, September 29, 2026 — Greenville, Florida –
The town of Greenville, located in Madison County, recently held its 6th annual Ray Charles Picnic, a community event dedicated to honoring the memory and musical legacy of the legendary artist. The celebration took place at Haffye Hays Park, a significant local landmark.
Ray Charles, a globally recognized and influential musician, spent his formative years in Greenville. The annual picnic serves as a local tradition to commemorate his roots and enduring impact on music. Attendees gathered at Haffye Hays Park to participate in the festivities, which included musical tributes and a general celebration of Charles’s life and achievements.
The park itself is a place of remembrance for the artist, featuring a life-sized statue of Ray Charles. This monument stands as a permanent tribute within the community that shaped his early life, providing a focal point for visitors and residents alike to connect with his history.
This year marked the sixth iteration of the event, underscoring its established presence as a cherished local gathering. The Ray Charles Picnic aims to keep the spirit and musical contributions of the Grammy Award-winning artist alive within his hometown, fostering a sense of pride and cultural connection among the residents of Greenville and Madison County.
The event provided an opportunity for the community to come together, share in the appreciation for one of music’s most iconic figures, and celebrate the cultural heritage of Greenville. Further details regarding the specific musical performances or community participation for this year’s event were not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Sedrick Bolton on www.wctv.tv, see more information here.
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