Ava McDonnell
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time for reflection, service, and celebration across Central Florida. Communities from Clermont to Orlando to Winter Park are hosting parades, volunteer opportunities, and family-friendly events that honor Dr. King’s legacy of equality, justice, and unity.
42nd Annual Downtown Orlando MLK Parade
Date/Time: Saturday, Jan. 17, 10 a.m.
Location: Downtown Orlando
Watch a colorful parade featuring floats, marching bands, and community organizations. This event is a festive way to celebrate unity and diversity while honoring Dr. King’s contributions. The parade theme is “Mission Possible 2: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way.”
Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration
Date/Time: Saturday, Jan. 17, 12 – 4 p.m.
Location: Knox Lakefront Park – Veterans Lawn, Kissimmee
Expect live music, cultural performances, food vendors, and activities for children. The celebration promotes community unity and gives families a fun way to reflect on Dr. King’s vision.
Date/Time: Saturday – Sunday, Jan. 18 – 19
Location: Shady Park, Hannibal Square Heritage Center
Celebrate heritage and diversity with performances, art exhibits, and family activities. Attendees can explore cultural traditions, enjoy entertainment, and connect with the community.
Arthur “Pappy” Kennedy MLK Prayer Breakfast
Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 19, 7:45 a.m.
Location: First Baptist Church, Orlando
Start the holiday with a morning gathering focused on reflection, faith, and community. Attendees can expect inspirational speeches and an uplifting environment.
Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 19, 10 a.m.
Location: Starts at Citrus Elementary, Ocoee
Expect a parade with floats, marching bands, and community organizations, followed by family-friendly activities and entertainment. The celebration emphasizes unity and community engagement.
MLK Day of Service – Million Meal Pack
Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m – 3:30 p.m.
Location: Orange County Convention Center
Volunteers will help pack meals for families in need across Central Florida. Expect a hands-on experience with participants whose goal is to pack one million meals in one day. Sign up HERE.
Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 19, 9 a.m.
Location: Rosemont Community Center, Orlando
Join a community beautification project with planting and clean-up activities. This is a family-friendly opportunity to honor Dr. King through action and improvement of local neighborhoods. Register HERE.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade & Celebration
Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 19; Parade at 10 a.m., Celebration at 11 a.m.
Location: Waterfront Park, Clermont
Celebrate unity and community with a parade followed by live entertainment, games, and food. This family-friendly event honors Dr. King’s legacy and brings people together for a day of reflection and fun.
Dr. MLK Jr. Parade & Community Celebration
Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Downtown Winter Garden
Join a lively parade followed by a community celebration with music, games, and local food vendors. Families can enjoy an afternoon of entertainment while honoring Dr. King’s legacy.
MLK Parade & Fun Day in the Park
Date/Time: Monday, Jan. 19
Location: Round Lake Park to Center Lake Park, Oviedo
Participate in a parade and enjoy park activities such as music, games, and crafts. This family-friendly event celebrates community and Dr. King’s message of equality and service.
Whether you want to march in a parade, participate in a service project, or enjoy cultural performances, there are events for people of all ages to come together and make a difference. These events provide a good opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and make a positive impact in your community.
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