Long Beach’s annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration returns on Jan. 17, 2026 to honor the life, legacy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The parade will kick off at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Anaheim Street. Following the parade will be a celebration with a main stage with live entertainment, a kid’s zone, food and merchandise vendors and more from noon to 5 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Park (1950 Lemon Ave).
“Each year, we come together to celebrate and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his enduring call for justice, service and unity,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “This event is an opportunity for people from every part of our city to stand side by side, celebrate our diversity and recommit ourselves to building a stronger, more connected Long Beach. I encourage everyone to come out, take part and help carry Dr. King’s spirit and ideals forward.”
Local businesses, nonprofit organizations and community groups interested in participating in the parade may submit a parade application now through Jan. 5, 2026. Participants are encouraged to incorporate appropriate elements that honor the life and legacy of Dr. King, such as quotes, photos, banners or flags.
The City is also seeking volunteers to support the parade and park celebration. Volunteers must be 18 or older, and responsibilities include standing at barricades to ensure safety of the event, staffing the information booth, collecting trash and providing general assistance with set up and breakdown.
Residents, local businesses, nonprofit organizations and community groups interested in volunteering at the parade and celebration can find more information and sign up via the online registration link.
In addition, community members are invited to nominate grand marshals for this year’s parade and celebration. The City is seeking people whose work embodies the legacy of Dr. King and those who have made a lasting impact in areas such as civic engagement and service, social justice advocacy, philanthropy, youth recognition, arts, sports and culture as well as community achievement.
More information about the parade and celebration will be available at a later date at longbeach.gov/mlkparade/.
