Columbia Celebrates 34 Years of Pride with Festivities
COLUMBIA, S.C. — This past Friday, the heart of Columbia was alive with **_celebration and joy_** as the Much-Awaited Famously Hot South Carolina Pride festival kicked off its 34th year. The highlight of the evening was a vibrant parade that filled downtown with waves of color, energy, and excitement. The parade, aptly titled “Get Lit,” was a massive display of unity, creativity, and the indomitable spirit of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.
Embracing Queer Joy and Resilience
With a focus on celebrating **_queer joy and resilience_**, the president of Famously Hot South Carolina Pride, Dylan Gunnels, shared, “This is our night.” He passionately emphasized that while stories of struggle and negative legislation often dominate the narrative, this festival serves as an opportunity to bask in the happiness of being authentically oneself. The event was not just another parade; it was a heartfelt reminder that your identity deserves to be celebrated.
A Community Effort
The parade was a collaborative effort that depended on the hard work of a dedicated team of 16 individuals. Behind the scenes, they orchestrated everything from float decorations to organizing participant outfits, showing the genuine camaraderie that exists within this community. Gunnels reflected on the challenges of organizing the festival, stating, “To put on events like this and do this work, it’s hard, it is tiring, and it is incredibly worth it, and we love every minute.”
Participation from Near and Far
The enthusiasm for the parade was palpable, with **_hundreds of participants_** taking part in the festivities. Julie Turner, the S.C. state chapter leader of Free Mom Hugs, noted the significance of holding such an event in Columbia, adding, “So many of our communities in outlying areas can’t really have pride events, so many of them do travel here.” This event doesn’t just mark a celebration; it generates substantial revenue for downtown businesses, proving that love and support can positively impact local economies.
Pride in Our Backyard
John White, a member of the Midlands Men’s Chorus, echoed the sentiment by pointing out how essential it is for folks in the area to know that there is a **_welcoming community right here in South Carolina_**. “You don’t just have to go to a big city to celebrate Pride. You can do it right here in your backyard,” he said, underscoring the importance of local support and visibility in fostering a sense of belonging.
A Night of Celebration
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the parade began its journey down Laurel Street, illuminated by decorated floats and proud participants adorned in festive attire. The evening was made even more special with live music and a special performance from contestants of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Attendees were also eager to support over **_80 LGBTQ+ owned businesses_** featured throughout the event, showcasing the diversity and talent within this vibrant community.
Looking Ahead
The Famously Hot SC Pride festival is not just a yearly event; it epitomizes an **_all-year-round commitment_** to inclusivity and connection. The team will meet in November to start planning the calendar for 2025, demonstrating their dedication to ensuring that every queer person around the state feels loved and connected. Gunnels highlighted the mission of reaching out to every corner of South Carolina, ensuring that no one feels isolated. “Our hope is to do that through all of the other organizations that already exist.”
This festival and parade in Columbia was a powerful testament to the enduring strength of community, love, and pride. Let’s all continue to celebrate, uplift one another, and keep the spirit of togetherness alive in our hearts long after the final float has passed.
