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38th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration Returns this January
By Staff Writer
Published on Fri, Nov 21, 2025
The City of Long Beach will honor the life, legacy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with the return of its 38th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration on Saturday, Jan. 17 in Central Long Beach.
This longstanding community tradition kicks off at 10 a.m. with a vibrant parade beginning at Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and Anaheim Street. The celebration continues from noon to 5 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Park, where attendees can enjoy live entertainment, a kid-friendly activity zone, and a variety of food and merchandise vendors.
Each year, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration brings the community together to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring ideals of unity, service and hope. The festival highlights the rich cultural diversity of Central Long Beach through performances, community involvement and artistic expression.
Local businesses, nonprofits and community groups are invited to take part in the parade. Applications are open through Monday, Jan. 5. Parade participants are encouraged to incorporate elements that honor Dr. King—such as meaningful quotes, banners, artwork or flags.
The City is also seeking volunteers to help support the parade and park festivities. Volunteers must be 18 or older and may assist with tasks such as monitoring barricades, staffing the information booth, collecting trash or helping with event setup and breakdown. Those interested can learn more and sign up for shifts through the online volunteer registration link.
Additional details about the parade and celebration will be shared soon at longbeach.gov/mlkparade/.
