Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) took the spotlight in Charlotte, North Carolina last week as the city hosted its first ever HBCU Festival.

The event kicked off Wednesday, May 29 with a networking mixer, and attendees enjoyed four days of programming celebrating the rich history and traditions of HBCUs. 

Thursday, May 30th included the pitch competition, career fair, and keynote speakers, and on May 31 musical guests Soulja Boy and Bow Wow performed, among others. Saturday, June 1 held a food drive, and Sunday June 2 concluded the event with a commemorative brunch followed by a gospel concert.

Most of the events during the festival were free, and all events were less than $20.

North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University alum Nasir Jones, one of the event’s organizers, told WCNC Charlotte, “We brought together all HBCU cultures in one place…where people can know what’s going on, and gain that awareness about how important it is in today’s society to know these things, and what can we give back to the community to help aid these causes.”

Alumni from HBCUs across the southeast came out to support their communities and represent their schools. Students attending the festival were entered into a scholarship drawing, and four were chosen to receive $1000 toward books, tuition, or other education-related expenses.