Thousands of people in Downtown Indianapolis were treated Saturday to a parade, street fair, battle of the bands and college football game during the annual Circle City Classic.

“It’s a time to rejoice with your loved ones and family and have fun,” said Brandon Harding, 22, Indianapolis, as he walked into Lucas Oil Stadium to watch Saturday’s football game between Alabama A&M and Tuskegee universities on the Classic’s fourth day.

Harding attended with his girlfriend, Sasha Edwards, 21, South Bend. Edwards’ grandmother, Anna Pearl Winston, has never missed a Circle City Classic since it began in 1983. Winston attended Saturday with her daughter, two granddaughters and Harding.

“We love the whole atmosphere and the positivity,” said Winston, South Bend. “We like supporting the kids in college and celebrating the value of education.”

The annual Classic, which kicked off Wednesday and continues through today, showcases historically black colleges and universities and raises money for scholarships.

For the past 15 years, Roger Kelley and his wife, Bertha, both 59, have made the event an annual tradition. The couple traveled from Evansville to attend this weekend’s festivities.

“It brings the city together,” said Kelley, who watched the American Family Insurance Classic Parade. “It’s a proud heritage for the black community and the state.”

Charlene Alexander, 53, Kokomo, also tries to attend the event each year.

“It’s a great weekend for Indianapolis,” she said. “People come here from all over.”

Jodie Palmer, 54, Indianapolis, agreed.

“It brings more awareness of Indianapolis, especially among the minority community all across the country,” Palmer said. “Myself, I didn’t go to a black college, so I enjoy coming out and supporting the historically black college and being part of that tradition. Money raised here helps support scholarship programs, and that’s something I appreciate.”

Among those who came from out of state was Shaleek Bey, 47, Chicago.

“This is my first time to attend, and so far I’m thoroughly enjoying (it),” Bey said. “This stadium is nice. I have relatives who live in Indianapolis who asked me to come this year, and I’m very impressed with the city. The people are nice.”

Many spoke of the celebration as an event that brings different generations together in a common cause.

“My grandson loves it,” said Robert Taylor, 59, Anderson, as he left his seat at the football game to go buy snacks. “He’s up there having a ball.”

Antwan Pittman, 33, Indianapolis, brought his girlfriend, Cita Punancy, to the football game on her 40th birthday, along with his 5-year-old son, T.J.

“I’m lucky because she’s a football fan,” Pittman said. “I get off easy.”

The couple do clash when it comes to professional football, Pittman said. A native of Chicago, he roots for the Bears. His girlfriend is a Colts fan. Pittman said he still can’t believe he wound up loving a Colts fan.

“She’s lucky she’s cute,” he joked.

Classic activities continue today

On the scheduled at 4 p.m. is the Gospel Music Explosion at the Madame Walker Building and Theatre Center, 617 Indiana Ave. Music groups Kurt Karr&the Kurt Carr Singers, Turning Point, Krash Krew, Kenny Lewis&One Voice and Harold Rayford and comedienne Meshelle will perform. Tickets are $13 in advance or $15 at the door.