COLUMBIA, S.C. — Parade floats lined the Hampton and Harden Street intersection Saturday morning as the Columbia community gathered to celebrate Black history.
This year marks the 19th annual Karamu Black History Parade and Festival in Columbia, and organizers are hoping for even more festivities next year.
Senator Tameika Isaac Devine served as Grand Marshall of the parade this year and has been a part of every single parade for the last 19 years. She believes the celebration will continue to grow.
"It's been amazing to see over the years the number of people who participate but even more, the number of people who come out and line the streets to see it, and the festival has grown so much. It's exciting to see after 19 years, how much we've been able to not just celebrate Black History, but it's really about the culture," Devine stated.
The festival, at Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Columbia, hosted several food and clothing vendors, even businesses selling books and hair care products. The park was filled with the sounds of gospel, rap, and even some R&B music as park-goers spent time talking and enjoying the Black History celebration.
Kimberlyn Hicks serves as the Parliamentarian for the MLK Park and Lower Wavery Association and says the festival can help teach the next generations about their roots.
"I think you should come out and share your heritage with generations and let them know where you came from and where we're going and all of the good things we have to offer," Hicks explained. "You get to experience some things your grandparents experienced, that you didn't and it's just a beautiful thing."
The party at the park lasted until around 5:30 p.m., but the recognition for Black History will not end on Saturday. The city will also host a Black Heritage Ball at Hyatt Park on Sunday. The ball features entertainment, food, door prizes, and surprises. Senator Tameika Isaac Devine will be the guest speaker. Guests are asked to dress in African attire. The ball begins at 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 and must be purchased in advance.
