City News Blog: 48th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Celebrating “A Legacy of Strength, A Future of Actions”
LAKELAND, FL (January 9, 2026) | The City of Lakeland is proud to announce the 48th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, taking place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m. This year’s theme, “A Legacy of Strength, A Future of Actions,” will unite the community in honoring the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his message of equality, service, and unity.
The parade will feature more than 100 participants and begin at the intersection of Providence Road and West 14th Street. From there, the route will travel south along Providence Road, turn east onto 10th Street, continue south on MLK Jr Avenue, and conclude at 2nd Street. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant procession showcasing professional floats, marching bands, dance teams, decorated vehicles, car clubs, and other dynamic community groups.
Parade participants will be judged in several categories: Walkers, Decorated Vehicle, Professional Float, Flatbed/Trailer, Dance Group, Car Club, Band, and Unique Cars/Trucks. Judging will take place at the intersection of MLK Jr Avenue and 10th Street. First, second, and third place winners will be recognized in each category, with awards announced at a later date.
In addition to the parade, residents are encouraged to take part in a series of community events leading up to the celebration, organized by the Reverend Dr. MLK Commission of Lakeland. These events provide opportunities for reflection, service, and education in honor of Dr. King’s life and legacy.
The City of Lakeland extends its sincere appreciation to the Reverend Dr. MLK Commission of Lakeland and MIDFLORIDA Credit Union for their continued partnership and support in making this annual event possible.
The community is invited to attend the MLK Parade and join in celebrating unity, history, and service. If you can’t make the parade in person, join the celebration from home! Residents unable to make the parade in person are encouraged to watch live on Spectrum Channel 643, and FiOS Channel 43. The broadcast will also be streamed with closed captions on www.lakelandgov.net and will be available as a video-on-demand service.
For additional details, visit LakelandGov.net/MLK or contact the organizers at MLKParade@lakelandgov.net.
Contacts
Jamin Smith
Digital Content Creator
City of Lakeland
Jamin.Smith@lakelandGov.net
About Lakeland
The City of Lakeland was incorporated in January 1885 and has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida. With a current population fast approaching 130,000 Lakeland continues to grow. It has been designated a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census Bureau for over 30 years. With tourist attractions and gulf beaches only an hour away, Lakeland continues to capitalize on its ideal central Florida location along the I-4 corridor. The City owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third largest publicly owned utility in Florida and it was one of the first to offer power in the Sunshine State in 1889.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit www.lakelandgov.net. Citizens are also invited to follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Vimeo, Snapchat and Nextdoor. Citizens can find the City of Lakeland on these social media platforms by searching lakelandgov.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please explore LakelandGov.net.
Citizens are also invited to follow the City on social media.