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Black Expo draws near‑record attendance; organizers highlight health screenings and regional visitors
Summary
Organizers reported a banner year for Black Expo with 16,880 attendees, expanded health screenings and significant out‑of‑region participation; partnerships included Prisma, Novo Nordisk and Johnson & Johnson.
Organizers of Columbia’s Black Expo reported a strong turnout and expanded health programming in 2025, telling council the event drew the best attendance in more than 15 years.
Darren Thomas of Thomas Media Group LLC said the fair’s main day recorded 16,880 attendees and noted 48% of attendees came from outside the region. He credited a health emphasis that delivered more than 878 health screenings and 1,500 bags of locally sourced produce distributed on the big day. Thomas told council the kickoff and related events — including a televised “Taste of Black to Columbia” at the fairgrounds that attracted about 700 people with 22 chefs — contributed to the outreach.
The presentation named partners including Prisma, Novo Nordisk and Johnson & Johnson; Thomas said Johnson & Johnson has already committed to participation in 2026. He also thanked council members for their direct support, mentioned hotel-stay increases tied to the event and said Black Expo was voted best community event by local radio listeners for the third consecutive year.
Why it matters: The event’s reach beyond Columbia and concentrated health services were highlighted as public‑health and economic benefits, with organizers citing increased hotel occupancy and regional visitors.
