WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) -The first MC Sha-Rock Day Festival was held Saturday at the Live Oak Bank Pavilion in downtown Wilmington.

The free, family-friendly event honored Wilmington native MC Sha-Rock, widely recognized as the first female MC in hip-hop history. The festival featured live music, DJ sets, dance performances, and community activities.

The event was organized by the City of Wilmington's Commission on African-American History in partnership with local supporters. Commission Chair Evelyn Adger said the festival supports their mission of creating inclusive opportunities for residents.

"One of our missions was to create a free event for the community for the young and the old. So I think this is a great start for hopefully many more to come," Adger said. "Since Sharon, MC Sha-Rock, was originally from Wilmington, what better way to host an event that sponsors her."

Organizers said they hope the event will become an annual celebration of Sha-Rock's contributions to hip-hop and her connection to Wilmington.