Monday, Jan. 20 marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday honoring the civil rights activist’s legacy. Lakeland will commemorate Dr. King’s impact with community-wide and free events starting Friday, Jan. 10. Here are six to mark on your calendar:
Grand Marshal Gala
Honor parade marshal Morris Chestang, president of the Gladys Leggett Neighborhood Association, at the Coleman-Bush Building on Friday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. — tickets are $50 per person or $380 per table.
Day of Caring
The Florida Children’s Museum will offer free admission on Saturday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can dream big together with art performances, hands-on activities, and interactive exhibits.
Unity Through Diversity: An Evening at the AGB
Dive into Martin Luther King Jr.’s life + legacy with a special lecture at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. The talk begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 15.
Don’t forget your chairs to enjoy Saturday’s MLK parade.
Photo by the City of Lakeland
47th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade
Celebrate with the community at this parade on Saturday, Jan. 18. The procession begins at 1 p.m. at the crossing of Providence Road and West 14th Street, and it ends at Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and 2nd Street, near the Coleman-Bush Building.
2025 MLK Car Show
The whole family can check out Lakeland’s best rides together on Sunday, Jan. 19 from 12 to 6 p.m. at Joker Marchant Stadium. If you want to be part of the fun, it’s $30 to register your own vehicle. Pro tip: Admission is free, but bring $15 for parking.
21st Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Interfaith Prayer Breakfast
The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance will host this breakfast at the Dream Center of Lakeland on Monday, Jan. 20 at 9 a.m. This year’s speaker will be Commissioner Rev. Clifton E. Dollison of Winter Haven. Tickets are $30 per person — be sure to buy yours by Jan. 13.
Want more? Keep an eye out for additional events to be announced.