ORLANDO, Fla. – Multiple events in Orlando will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission for Orlando aims to “strengthen our community by promoting Dr. King’s legacy of service, equality, justice, peace, respect and inclusion for all.”
Recommended Videos
The events throughout the month of January, including on the MLK holiday, celebrate his life and educate the community.
Here’s what is happening:
Thursday, Jan. 16: Annual MLK Jr. Leadership Forum
“During the Leadership Forum, presented by the Orlando Alumni Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, participants will take part in a moderated, interactive event with key leaders of the Orlando community to discuss this year’s theme of “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365.″
Location: Florida A&M University of College Law, 201 FAMU Law Lane, Orlando, FL 32801
Time: 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 17: Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Luncheon
“This luncheon, presented by the Delta Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. & the I.S. Hankins/F.A. Johnson Education Foundation (HJEF), begins with keynote speaker Marc Morial, who served as the highly successful and popular Mayor of New Orleans. At the event, students, community leaders and organizations will be recognized for their contributions with the prestigious Drum Major Award in areas of Scholastic Achievement, Civic Affairs, Social Justice, Community Service and Business.”
Location: First Baptist Orlando, 3000 South John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32805
Time: 11:30 a.m.
Saturday, Jan. 18: Downtown Orlando Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
“The parade will kick off at the Downtown Orlando Courthouse and make its way to the beautiful Lake Eola Park. Come celebrate the legacy of Dr. King with vibrant floats, marching bands and community groups. It’s a day filled with unity, inspiration and fun for all ages. Join us as we honor Dr. King’s mission and let’s be intentional about protecting and promoting his dream through our works.”
Location: Downtown Orlando Courthouse to Lake Eola Park, 425 North Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 18: Eatonville’s 48th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Celebration
“The Historic Town of Eatonville warmly invites you to join us for the 48th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Celebration on Saturday, January 18, 2024. This year’s theme, “Illuminating Tomorrow Together,” celebrates Dr. King’s enduring legacy of unity, progress, and hope for the future.”
Following the parade, enjoy live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities at Hungerford Field.
Location: Along Kennedy Boulevard, Eatonville, FL 32751
Time: Parade start time 2 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 19: MLK Night at the Orlando Magic (cost)
“The event will recognize Mayor Dyer’s MLK Youth Humanitarian Award Winners at the Orlando Magic vs. Denver Nuggets game.”
Location: Kia Center, 400 West Church Street, Orlando, FL 32801
Time: 6 p.m.
*Note: This is a ticketed event and will take place during the basketball game.
Monday, Jan. 20: Arthur “Pappy” Kennedy 34th Annual Prayer Breakfast
“Presented by the Southwest Orlando Jaycees and the Central Florida YMCA, the annual Arthur “Pappy” Kennedy Prayer Breakfast will commemorate the legacies of civil rights pioneers Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Arthur “Pappy” Kennedy, Orlando’s first African American City Council Member. This year’s guest speaker will be Carolyn Fennell, former senior vice president of public affairs and community relations with Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.
Held each year on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day for more than three decades, this prayer breakfast traditionally brings together more than 1,000 civic leaders, pastors and Central Florida neighbors in faith, prayer and the shared commitment to strengthen the community and improve lives.”
Location: First Baptist Orlando, 3000 South John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32805
Time: 7:30 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 20: 2025 Seedlings for Civil Rights
“Join Green Up Orlando to beautify Hankins Park by planting trees, mulching, and removing litter in the surrounding park and other areas. Snacks, water and all needed supplies provided for volunteers. Closed toe shoes required.”
Location: Dr. I Sylvester Hankins Park, 1340 Lake Park Court, Orlando, FL 32805
Time: 9 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 20: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission’s Great Day of Service
“Join us and US Hunger with sponsorship from Kroger Foods for a food packing event. We’re looking for 3,000 – 5,000 volunteers to pack between half a million and one million meals for those in need in the Orlando community.
Volunteer Opportunities: There are three types of roles for volunteers. Whether you’re a natural leader or someone who enjoys helping behind the scenes, there’s a spot for you.
- Table Captains: Serve as leaders who help guide and support groups of volunteers to ensure smooth operations throughout the event. Sign up to be a Table Captain.
- Heavy Lifters: Assist with essential tasks related to moving and organizing supplies, helping make sure everything runs seamlessly. Sign up to be a Heavy Lifter.
- Community Volunteer: Help in the assembly and packing of up to one million meals for families across Central Florida. Sign up to be a community volunteer.
When registering, please be sure to select “City of Orlando - Mayor’s MLK Commission” from the dropdown list to ensure your registration is properly recorded.”
Location: Orange County Convention Center - South Concourse, 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
Time: 9 a.m.
To check out more information about the city’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission, click here.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: