FLORENCE, S.C. (WPDE) — On the final day of Black History Month, residents and community organizations gathered in downtown Florence to celebrate history, heritage, and legacy.

Saturday marked the third annual Pat Gibson–Hye Moore Black History Parade.

Dozens of groups marched and rode through the streets, while families and supporters lined West Evans Street, cheering, waving, and celebrating.

The parade honors the late Pat Gibson-Hye Moore, who served six years on the Florence City Council before passing away after an illness last year.

MORE: Atlantic Beach, the Black Pearl, steps into a new chapter of growth and revitalization

Before her death, Moore encouraged local leaders to continue building on the city’s black history celebration, a legacy organizers say lives on through this event.

“She was always a person to show up, not just in spirit but in person, and so continuing that and being where the people are, creating the legacy, creating unity and pride within our black history that’s what we need to do,” Lashonda Nesmith Jackson, District 1 Florence city councilwoman, said.

“You are missing out on history, you are missing out on opportunity to celebrate your history and your lineage, so don’t miss it next time,” Les Echols, the Director or Community & Minority Enterprise with Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, said.

The parade ended at Thompson’s barber shop on Dargan Street, where the celebration continued with live music, food, and fellowship.

Historically Black Greek letter organizations, nonprofits, bike clubs, and even candidates for local office took part in this year’s event.

Organizers said the parade has grown each year, and they’re looking forward to even more community participation in the years ahead.