News Summary
Columbia, South Carolina, is set to host the 20th Annual Karamu! Celebrate! Black History Parade & Festival on February 22, 2025. This significant event will honor the contributions of African Americans, featuring the first African American woman senator as Grand Marshal. The parade will showcase vibrant floats, entertainment, and community participation through historic neighborhoods, ensuring a heartfelt celebration for attendees of all ages. Registration is open for participants and vendors wishing to join the festivities.
Columbia Set to Embrace 20 Years of Black History Celebration
Mark your calendars, folks! Columbia, South Carolina, is gearing up for a heartwarming and joyous celebration as the 20th Annual Karamu! Celebrate! Black History Parade & Festival rolls into town on Saturday, February 22, 2025. This milestone event promises to be packed with excitement, fun, and a fantastic way to honor the rich heritage and vibrant contributions of African Americans in our community.
An Honorable Grand Marshal
The parade will proudly feature the renowned Honorable Senator Maggie Glover as its Grand Marshal. Senator Glover holds the distinction of being the first African American woman elected to the South Carolina Senate, and her inspiring presence is sure to add a special touch to this momentous occasion. As parade-goers share in the festivities, they will also have the chance to reflect on the remarkable advancements made in our society and the significant strides towards equality and representation.
Festivities Through Historic Neighborhoods
This year, the parade will meander through the enchanting streets of Columbia, specifically highlighting the historic Waverly and Five Points neighborhoods. Attendees can look forward to stunning floats, lively marching bands, and various community participants showcasing their creativity and talent, all dedicated to celebrating the beauty of Black history and culture!
Entertainment to Delight
What’s a parade without some dazzling entertainment? Prepare to laugh out loud as comedian Annie McKnight takes the stage! Known for her engaging blend of drama, comedy, and stand-up, Annie is set to deliver a performance that will leave the audience in stitches and full of joy. For those curious about her comedic style, more information can be found on her official website. Get ready for a great show that promises to entertain and uplift the spirits of all!
Join the Fun!
Are you feeling the urge to jump in and be part of this fantastic festival? Good news! Registration is now open for parade participants and vendors across South Carolina. Whether you represent a business, a local organization, or simply want to showcase your talent, this is your opportunity to shine! Applications must be submitted by Friday, February 14, 2025, so don’t wait too long to secure your spot.
How to Participate
Those interested in registering can easily reach out to Oveta Glover by phone or email. Alternatively, you can opt for online registration at a dedicated website designed for this purpose. Think about how much fun it would be to ride in a decorated truck, bike, or car, or walk alongside a spirited marching band! Plus, Southeastern Float Co. is available for those who wish to incorporate a float into the parade. Their contact number is also handy for anyone looking to add a special flair to the festivities.
Celebrating Heritage
The Karamu! Celebrate! Black History Parade & Festival isn’t just an event; it’s a festival that attempts to truly honor and celebrate the legacy of African Americans’ rich history through various fun activities, performances, and interactive experiences. It seeks to engage people of all ages, offering a wonderful way to learn and appreciate the depth and breadth of Black culture.
So, gather your friends and family, and prepare for a lovely day filled with laughter, celebration, and meaningful reflection. The 20th anniversary of this beloved event is sure to be a sight to behold, paving the way for future traditions and uniting our community in celebration. Columbia, are you ready to celebrate? See you there!
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: 19th Annual Black History Parade and Festival
- WIS TV: Celebrating City of Columbia’s 46th Veterans Day Parade
- ABC Columbia: Celebrate Black History Month with These Events in the Midlands
- Google Search: Black History Month events
- Wikipedia: Black History Month
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
