Creators from dance, music, sports, fashion, entertainment, and education came together in Hollywood on Thursday for the first-ever US TikTok Awards, celebrating creativity, community, and inspiration.

The lively ceremony featured Labubu dolls launched from a T-shirt cannon, a giant selfie challenge, skits, and reenactments of viral moments, bringing energy and joy to attendees and viewers alike.

The awards were livestreamed on TikTok and Tubi, with lifestyle influencer La La Anthony hosting.

Keith Lee was crowned “Creator of the Year” for his content highlighting family and small businesses, sharing on stage, “TikTok gave me a platform to showcase small businesses around the country… this is for me.”

Bretman Rock won “Video of the Year,” while DJ Paris Hilton received “Muse of the Year” for inspiring others, emphasizing that “a muse doesn’t follow trends; we help create them.” Rising star Jeremiah Brown, formerly of Love Island USA, was also honored.

The ceremony celebrated inclusivity and activism through the “For Good” award, given to Zach, a creator with Down syndrome, and his brother Pat Valentine, who educates audiences about the condition.

Their work promotes acceptance, understanding, and empowerment for people with disabilities.

The night also featured a musical performance by Grammy-winning pop singer Ciara, who delighted the audience with a medley of her hits, including Goodies, 1,2 Step, and Level Up.

Beyond celebration, the event comes amid major developments for TikTok in the US. ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, announced a binding agreement with three major investors to sell just over 80% of its US assets to American and global investors, aiming to address regulatory concerns and ensure the platform’s continued operation.

TikTok remains a space where millions of Americans over 170 million regularly can express creativity, learn, and inspire each other.

Alexandra Doten, an educational creator on TikTok, shared her enthusiasm, saying, “This platform does so much to spark creativity and make people smarter and more inspired. I’m thrilled to be part of its journey and growth.”

The US TikTok Awards stand as a testament to the power of digital creativity to unite communities, celebrate diverse voices, and uplift stories that educate, entertain, and inspire.