Circle City Classic returns to Indianapolis INDIANAPOLIS — Music, dancing and community pride filled downtown Indianapolis Saturday as the 42nd annual Circle City Classic Parade moved through the city center. The parade, which began at 10 a.m. and traveled along Pennsylvania and Ohio streets , is a signature event of the weekend. It celebrates Black culture, community and the legacy of historically Black colleges and universities. “Just to be able to see the young, gifted, talented athletes that are playing at all the different schools. A lot of us may not be alumni from Lawrence North, Warren Central, Pike, Ben Davis, but it gives us a good opportunity, and people who don’t follow those schools to say wow, these’s schools got some great kids,” Ed Rogers of Indiana Black Expo said. Marching bands, dancers, floats and community groups participated. Among them was the Naptown Real Roller, a local performer who dedicated weeks to practicing for the event. “We’ve been practicing for maybe like two months now outside in the heat in the 90-degree weather. We was outside sweating, sweating bullets, so we could get ready for this parade, look good out there,” participant Simmone Hinkle said. Actor Wood McClain served as grand marshal. The parade is part of the larger Circle City Classic, which includes educational and cultural events held throughout the afternoon. Organizers say planning for next year’s celebration is already under way. “2027 is going to be a big year for us. We have a lot of new plans and we will be announcing those soon what Circle City Classic 2027 will look like as we reimagine,” Rogers said. The Circle City Classic also serves as a scholarship fundraiser. The event has helped award more than $5 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education. ...read more read less