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COLUMBIA, SC (WACH) -- The St. Patrick's Day festival in Five Points Saturday drew a record crowd this year.

Five Points Association Executive Director Merritt McHaffie says more than 40,000 people attended the celebration last Saturday.

The event was packed with more than 7,000 vendors, sponsors, media outlets, volunteers, band members, and staff members.

Vendors sold typical festival favorites such as fried food, face painting and festive St. Pat's accessories.

The warm weather brought about a large turnout of both local's and college students.

The parade, which included 79 units, began around 10 a.m. while bands began their sound checks to perform throughout the day.

This year some of the musical guests included Lee Brice, Hinder, and Crossfade.

According to the Five Points Association, 2,900 pounds of materials were recycled after the event.

For more information about the St. Patrick's Day Celebration in Five Points click here.