Overview

Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be commemorated on Monday with a variety of parades, cultural events, and volunteer opportunities across Los Angeles and Orange counties. The day honors the legacy of the civil rights leader with activities aimed at fostering community engagement and reflection.

The largest event will occur in South Los Angeles, featuring the newly rebranded "Los Angeles Official Martin Luther King Day Parade," organized by Bakewell Media, which took over from previous organizers.

Key details

  • The parade will start at 10 a.m. at Western Avenue and MLK Jr. Boulevard.
  • It will conclude at Leimert Park.
  • ABC7 will broadcast the parade live from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Cedric The Entertainer will act as the grand marshal for the parade.
  • The parade will include floats, marching bands, and participation from faith-based and community organizations.
  • Local and national leaders are expected to attend the parade.
  • Following the parade, the MLK Freedom Festival will be hosted by L.A. City Council members at Leimert Park Village.
  • The festival will feature performances by the Grammy award-winning Avila Brothers.
  • A community resource fair, local vendors, and food trucks will be part of the festival.
  • Assemblyman Isaac Bryan and state Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas are scheduled to attend the festival.
  • The South Los Angeles Community Coalition will present "The Barbershop" forum to discuss issues relevant to the community.
  • The coalition will also launch a community poll to gather input on key issues affecting South LA residents.

Context

This year's events come as a reflection of the ongoing need for collective action and community engagement in Los Angeles, particularly in light of social justice issues that resonate with Dr. King's legacy.

What happens next

In addition to the parade and festival, the annual MLK Day Volunteer Festival will occur at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, starting at noon, organized by the nonprofit L.A. Works.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the number of participants expected at the parade and festival, as well as specific activities planned for the volunteer festival, have not been confirmed.