COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) — The Juneteenth celebrations continued this weekend in the Capital City, as thousands gathered for a vibrant parade and festival.

Hundreds marched proudly down Main Street in Columbia, accompanied by colorful floats, bright colors, fast sports cars, cowgirls, and more, to celebrate the 9th annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival.

“Juneteenth for me is celebrating black excellence, celebrating our black culture, celebrating the freedom of black people,” said one Vendor Shavon Capers.

Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom.

While the holiday has been celebrated for decades, former President Joe Biden made it an official federal holiday in 2021.

South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest Founder Jamal Bradley said they are making sure more and more people learn of its significance.

“It’s important for us to continue to honor those who came before us, to celebrate each other, to gather as a community, and to look at the problems together to try and figure out a solution,” said Bradley.

After the parade, there were more festivities, more music, displays of black-owned businesses, food, and fellowship.

Inner Glow Cosmetics owner Shavon Capers hoped to share her all-natural body butter products with people suffering from eczema.

“I use all-natural products to give us the skin care we need,” said Capers.

Capers was one of dozens of vendors looking to showcase their very best services and products.

Bradley said this year’s festival came during a time of uncertainty. “Some companies because of DEI policy some companies did back out. Instead of looking outward what you can see here is that the community values the celebration and as long as the community values the celebration it will be alright,” said Capers.