News Summary
Columbia, S.C. is gearing up for the 20th anniversary of the South Carolina Black History Parade & Festival on February 22, 2025. Under the theme ‘Karamu! Celebrate!’, the event will showcase entertainment, culture, and community spirit through vibrant parades, musical acts, and food vendors. Highlights include the appointment of Honorable Senator Maggie Glover as Grand Marshal and comedian Annie McKnight performing at the festival. The event promises a fantastic celebration honoring African American heritage that promises fun for everyone involved.
Columbia Gears Up for 20th Anniversary of the South Carolina Black History Parade & Festival
Columbia, S.C. is all set to come alive as the South Carolina Black History Parade & Festival returns for its 20th year. This vibrant celebration will take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, through the historic Waverly and Five Points communities. It’s an event that promises a wonderful mix of entertainment, culture, and community spirit, and you’re definitely going to want to be part of it!
Ready to Celebrate!
The theme for this year’s festivities is “Karamu! Celebrate!”, setting the stage for a magnificent showcase of heritage and pride. With the parade and festival marking two decades of honoring African American history, this is a significant milestone you simply can’t miss!
One of the exciting highlights for the 2025 celebration is the appointment of Honorable Senator Maggie Glover as the Grand Marshal. As the first African American woman elected to the South Carolina Senate, her presence undoubtedly adds a special touch to this momentous occasion.
Fun for Everyone!
Attendees can expect a lively lineup of activities! The parade will feature an array of participants, from decorated trucks, cars, bikes, to marching bands and walking groups. The streets of Columbia will be brimming with joy, showcasing the vibrant community through music, dance, and infectious energy.
To spice things up, comedian Annie McKnight will take the stage to entertain the crowd. Known for her unique blend of drama, comedy, and stand-up, she’s sure to keep everyone laughing and engaged throughout the festival. If you’re curious to learn more about her comedic style, you can check out her website!
Join the Celebration!
Are you eager to join in the fun? There’s still time to get involved! Parade participants and vendors can apply to take part in this joyful event. The registration for festival participation will remain open until Friday, February 14, 2025. Whether you’re part of a local organization, a vendor selling delicious treats, or a creative soul looking to showcase your talent, there’s a place for you at the parade!
For organizations wishing to join the parade, you can contact Oveta Glover for assistance at 803-361-5470 or via email at fundsinc@fundsinc1.org. You can also visit their official website for more details. And if you’re looking to make a grand entrance, you can obtain floats from Southeastern Float Co. by calling 803-917-0644.
A Celebration of Culture
Mark your calendars because this festival promises to deliver a remarkable celebration of culture, music, and community spirit. The South Carolina Black History Parade & Festival has established itself as an essential event within the city’s cultural calendar, drawing residents and visitors alike who are eager to celebrate and honor African American heritage.
So gather your friends and family, prepare to embrace the history, and get ready to have an absolute blast at this year’s 20th anniversary celebration. The streets of Columbia will be waiting to welcome you with open arms, and you won’t want to miss out on the incredible festivities lined up.
Get set to shout, “Karamu!” and celebrate with the community, making unforgettable memories along the way!
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Celebrating Columbia’s 46th Veterans Day Parade
- WPDE: 19th Annual Statewide Black History Parade and Festival
- WLTX: 19th Annual Black History Parade and Festival
- ABC Columbia: Celebrate Black History Month with These Events
- Cola Today: Columbia Guide to Juneteenth Freedom Fest
