Columbia Celebrates 34 Years of Pride with Famously Hot SC Pride Festival
The city of Columbia, South Carolina, is alive with excitement as it kicks off the 34th annual Famously Hot South Carolina Pride festival. The festival began with a vibrant parade in downtown Columbia, an event that has become a cherished tradition for many locals and visitors alike.
A Celebration of Queer Joy
At the heart of the parade is a spirit of celebration and community. Dylan Gunnels, the president of Famously Hot South Carolina Pride, emphasized the importance of this festival by stating, “To celebrate, to experience queer joy. That’s something that we talk about a lot, is queer joy and queer resilience.” This sentiment is particularly poignant in a time when negative narratives surrounding the LGBTQ+ community are often highlighted. “This is our night,” he added, as the crowd gathered to enjoy the festivities.
The “Get Lit” Parade Lights Up Downtown
The parade, aptly named the “Get Lit” parade, was a colorful affair featuring hundreds of participants who came together to decorate floats and dress in their most festive attire. It was more than just a parade; it was a show of unity and pride. Gunnels remarked on their mission, saying, “We want to be able to create events and create an organization that is sustainable, that is long-lasting, an organization that’s making a truly, deeply impactful mark on the state.” The efforts of the small but dedicated team, made up of 16 non-profit volunteers, have made the event possible.
Pride Matters for All Communities
The event was not only a celebration but also a vital social gathering for many communities in and around the Midlands. Julie Turner, the South Carolina state chapter leader of Free Mom Hugs, expressed how crucial this gathering is, sharing, “It feels amazing to have an event like this in Columbia because so many of our communities in outlying areas can’t really have pride events.” People traveled from various regions to take part, underscoring the significance of such gatherings.
John White, a member of the Midlands Men’s Chorus, added, “I think especially being in South Carolina, it’s important that, you know, people know that there’s a community here.” The message was clear: Pride can be celebrated anywhere, not just in major cities. “You can do it right here in your backyard, and it’s really nice to see the city come out to support everybody,” he said excitedly as the parade rolled down Laurel Street.
Music, Drag, and Local Business
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by live music, including a special feature from RuPaul’s Drag Race Hour, bringing laughter and excitement to the evening. Plus, with more than 80 LGBTQ+ owned businesses participating in the festivities, the parade represented a thriving community that supports local entrepreneurs.
A Year-Round Commitment
Gunnels shared how even though the parade is an annual event, planning is a year-round effort. The team is set to meet this coming November to map out the calendar for 2025. “Our hope is to make sure that every single queer person across the state feels like they belong, knows that they are loved, and knows where to get connected,” Gunnels expressed, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to fostering an inclusive community.
Conclusion
The Famously Hot South Carolina Pride festival is not just an event; it is a movement celebrating love, community, and resilience. With its focus on positivity, connection, and joy, Columbia is truly embracing its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, making it a place where everyone can feel welcomed and celebrated.
