Columbia, S.C.: Celebrating 34 Years of Pride!
If you’ve been in Columbia lately, you might have noticed a wave of excitement surrounding the city. That’s right—it’s that wonderful time of year again! The Famously Hot South Carolina Pride Festival has officially kicked off its celebrations, marking an impressive 34 years of Pride in the South Carolina Midlands. The festivities began on a high note this Friday with a lively parade weaving through the downtown area, lighting up the night with a sense of joy and inclusiveness.
Embracing Queer Joy and Resilience
As Dylan Gunnels, the president of Famously Hot South Carolina Pride, aptly put it, “To celebrate, to experience queer joy. That’s something that we talk about a lot, is queer joy and queer resilience.” For many, this celebration is a refreshing counter to the often negative narratives shared in the media regarding LGBTQ+ experiences.
“Oftentimes, when you hear stories, they might shine a light on negative legislation or unfortunate experiences,” Gunnels continued. “But on this night, we focus on *our joy*!” And joy filled the streets as hundreds of participants came together, showcasing their creativity and spirit through beautifully adorned floats and striking attire.
A Labor of Love
This vibrant event is brought to life by a passionate non-profit team, which is made up of just 16 individuals. Despite the challenges and the demanding effort involved in organizing such a large-scale celebration, Gunnels observed that “it is incredibly worth it, and we love every minute.” The goal? To create an organization and events that will leave a lasting impact on the community.
Each year, the parade becomes a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors. Julie Turner, who leads the Free Mom Hugs state chapter, highlighted the significance of having a major Pride event in Columbia. “So many of our communities in outlying areas can’t really have pride events,” she explained. “Many folks travel here, making this a huge revenue generator for downtown.” It’s not just about fun; it’s also about fostering community strength and support.
A Celebration for Everyone
John White, a member of the Midlands Men’s Chorus, shared his thoughts on the importance of Pride in South Carolina: “It’s important that people know there’s a community here.” He emphasized that the celebration isn’t just confined to big cities. “You can do it right here in your backyard, and it’s really nice to see the city come out to support everybody.” His words resonate with many who seek connection and a sense of belonging.
Festivities Under the Stars
The parade officially kicked off at sunset, illuminating Laurel Street with festive lights and laughter. As the revelers marched on, the atmosphere was electric with live music, special guests from the famous RuPaul’s Drag Race, and a gathering of more than 80 LGBTQ+-owned businesses eager to showcase their pride.
Even though this event shines brightly each year in the Midlands, Gunnels emphasized an inclusive vision: “It’s our hope to ensure every single queer person across the state feels like they belong and knows they are loved.” Organizers aim for this to be a celebration and a means of connection, highlighting existing organizations that offer crucial support.
Looking Ahead
Planning for the festival is no small feat; organizers work year-round to bring this event to life. They’ll be meeting in November to start discussing plans for 2025. With all the enthusiasm and pride bubbling up during this weekend’s festivities, it’s evident that the Famously Hot South Carolina Pride Festival is not just a celebration of the present but also of future connections and community growth throughout the state.
So, whether you’re a long-time local or just visiting, there’s never been a better time to experience the joy and unity of Columbia’s Pride celebration. Let’s uplift each other and continue to showcase the incredible diversity within our communities!
