A battle of the bands attracted crowds to Restoration Plaza Saturday.

Marching bands and dance groups came together to celebrate historically Black colleges and to uplift the spirit of the community after 18 months of pandemic conditions.

Booths were also set up by several HBCUs, offering health and educational resources.

Crowds were able to listen and see performances by Victory Music and Dance Company, the Brownsville Excellence Marching Band, Brooklyn United, Empire Elite, and Brooklyn Drumline.