Tampa Bay’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebrations: Check Out the Event Listings

In Tampa, Florida, Martin Luther King Jr. Day consistently occurs on the third Monday of January, aligning with King’s birthday on January 15 this year. Tampa Latest has assembled a comprehensive list of events taking place on and around this significant holiday to pay tribute to the enduring legacy of the civil rights icon.

Tampa

Commencing on Saturday, Tampa’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations kick off with the two-day Tampa Bay Black Heritage Music Fest. Featuring performances by Leela James, Adam Hawley, and Keke Wyatt, this year’s event promises a vibrant experience. Tickets are available at $30 for a single day or $50 for both days (Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.).

The city’s annual MLK Day parade is slated for Monday at noon. Led by Grand Marshal Gwen Miller, the first Black woman elected to the Tampa City Council, the parade guarantees a lively spectacle with floats, dancing groups, and marching bands. Covering a distance of two miles, the procession starts at Cuscaden Park and concludes at Middleton High School by approximately 3:30 p.m.

St. Petersburg

Experience the City of St. Pete’s 38th annual MLK Dream Big Weekend and join the community in the festivities. The celebration commences with the Dream Big Banquet on Friday, running from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the St. Petersburg Country Club.

Saturday brings the citywide MLK Treasure Hunt, happening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The adventure begins at City Hall, promising an engaging experience for all participants. On Sunday, witness the MLK Band Showcase at Lakewood High School, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tickets for these events can be conveniently obtained daily at Advantage Village Academy. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this commemorative weekend honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

This upcoming Monday, residents are warmly invited to participate in the Dream Big Parade, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Following the parade, the festivities continue with the MLK Family Fun Day at Tropicana Field. This exciting event boasts carnival rides, a diverse selection of food vendors, and captivating live performances. Entry is free for all, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience for the entire community. Don’t miss out on the celebration of unity, joy, and the enduring legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

Winter Haven

The City of Winter Haven is gearing up for a week of festive celebrations in honor of the holiday. Residents are cordially invited to participate in the Wreath Laying Ceremony at MLK Park, commencing at 10 a.m. on Thursday. Later that same day at 6 p.m., the Ritz Theater will host “Movies with Martin.”

On Friday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Nora Mayo Hall will be the venue for the city’s MLK Unity Luncheon. This special event promises a catered lunch, live music, and more, with tickets priced at $15. The highlight of the festivities is the 45th annual Winter Haven MLK parade on Saturday, kicking off at 10 a.m. along MLK Boulevard. Join in the celebration of unity and remembrance throughout this vibrant week.

Plant City

Get ready for the 38th annual Plant City MLK Festival, commencing this Friday. The highlight of the festival is the vibrant parade scheduled for Saturday, running from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The parade route spans from downtown Plant City to the MLK Recreation Complex. Following the parade, attendees can enjoy a captivating performance by the MLK drumline and live entertainment, ensuring a day filled with celebration and cultural richness. Join in the festivities and commemorate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. in Plant City.

Dade City

Mark your calendars for the annual Dade City MLK Parade Celebration, set to take place this Saturday at 10 a.m. This year’s grand marshal is none other than Dade City’s hometown hero and Washington Huskies star quarterback, Michael Penix Jr. Anticipate a lively procession featuring vibrant floats, captivating music and dance performances, and appearances from esteemed community leaders. Join in the celebration as the community comes together to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.