Local groups and organizations were at the festival.

TIFTON — The 32nd Arts in Black Festival highlighted the contributions and history of the black community through song, dance and poetry April 21.

Melissa Hughes, who chaired the planning committee, said that overall the festival was a great success.

“Overall it was really good,” she said. “The welcoming committee of gnats were not there to welcome our guests this year, which was a great thing.”

She said that the weather was beautiful, the vendors were great and she was pleased with the turnout, which was larger than last year.

Tifton Mayor Julie Smith and Tift County Commissioner Donnie Hester opened the festival at 10:30 a.m.

Dancer’s Pointe performed directly after the opening, featuring several dancers who showcased a variety of dance styles including ballet, contemporary and acrobatics.

The poetry competition took place next.

The winners were:

Category 1:

Solomon Nixon III, first place

Zuri Thomas, second place

Roslyn Griffin, third place

Category 2:

Eyona Tindall, first place

Kenneth Bell Jr, second place

Damani Fudge, third place

Category 3:

Nariah Collins, first place

Kentoria Bell, second place

Category 4:

Nikeaira Collins

Essence Band from Albany and Harold E. Thomas & Danger Zone from Macon performed during the festival.

The Arts in Black Talent Show took place the evening before the festival.