Save the Date! Long Beach’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration Returns January 17, 2026
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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The streets of Central Long Beach will come alive on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, as the City of Long Beach and Office of Sixth District Councilwoman Dr. Suely Saro proudly present the 38th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration. This family-friendly event is a tribute to the life, legacy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

According to Mayor Rex Richardson, this event is an opportunity for people from all corners of the city to come together and celebrate diversity while recommitting themselves to building a stronger and more connected community. "Each year, we come together to celebrate and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his enduring call for justice, service and unity," said Mayor Richardson.

The festivities will kick off at 10 a.m. with a parade at the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and Anaheim Street. The parade will be followed by a park celebration from noon to 5 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Park (1950 Lemon Ave.). The park celebration will feature live entertainment on the main stage, a kid zone for children's activities, food and merchandise vendors, and more.

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The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration is a longstanding tradition that celebrates the diverse community of Central Long Beach. This festival serves as a reminder to keep alive the ideals of Dr. King through arts, remembrance and meaningful perspectives.

Sixth District Councilwoman Dr. Suely Saro emphasized the importance of continuing to uphold Dr. King's vision for a just society rooted in shared purpose, hope and values."The Martin Luther King Jr., Parade and Celebration reminds us that we must continue to rise up and stand up for Dr.King's vision," said Councilwoman Saro.

Local businesses, nonprofit organizations and community groups are invited to participate in the parade by submitting an application before Monday, Jan. 5, 2026. Participants are encouraged to incorporate elements that honor the life and legacy of Dr. King, such as quotes, photos, banners or flags.

The City is also seeking volunteers to support the parade and park celebration. Volunteers must be 18 years or older and will be responsible for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of parade participants and spectators, staffing the information booth, trash collection and assisting with event set up and break down. Interested individuals can sign up for volunteer shifts through an online registration link.

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In addition to volunteers, community members are invited to nominate grand marshals for this year's parade and celebration. The City is looking for individuals whose work embodies the legacy of Dr. King and who have made a lasting impact in areas such as civic engagement and service; social justice advocacy; philanthropy; youth recognition; arts, sports and culture; and community achievement.

More information about the parade and celebration will be available at a later date on the City's website at longbeach.gov/mlkparade/. The Martin Luther King Jr., Parade and Celebration is a testament to Long Beach's commitment to ensuring every resident feels seen, valued and supported.

Filed Under: Government, City
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