Honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this year by attending one of the local events dedicated to his memory. In Orlando and Central Florida, we have parades, festivals, and more aimed at sharing his dreams for the future and remembering our past.
Here is our selection of MLK Day events in Central Florida.
Downtown Orlando Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
Lake Eola Park, Orlando
January 18, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Free
This annual parade will begin at the Downtown Orlando Courthouse and circle around Lake Eola Park. This year’s parade theme is “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365″ so you will see floats, performances, marching bands, and community groups uphold this theme.
23rd Unity Heritage Festival and Open House
Shady Park, Winter Park
January 19 and 20, 2025
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free
An annual festival in Winter Park to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and promote community and family. The festival offers an official program at 11:00 a.m. featuring a presentation of the Annual Heritage Award and bench unveiling in honor of Mr. Ulysses Floyd, as well as kids’ activities, food and retail vendors, career booths, job training/health literacy assistance, Zoo Mom Science, and blues and jazz bands featuring Jabari Clay and various artists.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration 2025
West Plant Street and the Downtown Pavilion, Winter Garden
January 20, 2025
Parade: 11 a.m.
Celebration: 11:30 to 4 p.m.
Free admission, free parking, and a free shuttle
The city of Winter Garden commemorates a civil rights legend with a parade along West Plant Stree (from Woodland St. to Central Ave.) and a celebration afterward. Immediately following the parade, the celebration will continue at the Downtown Pavilion and include musical entertainment, children’s activities, and vendors with refreshments to purchase.
2025 Seedlings for Civil Rights
Dr. I Sylvester Hankins Park, Orlando
January 20, 2025
9:00 a.m.
Free
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a day of service in conjunction with Green Up Orlando. Help beautify Hankins Park by removing litter, planting trees, and mulching. Snacks, water, and all supplies will be supplied for volunteers. Register at their site.
MLK Gospel Concert: Until I Reach My Home, It’s Gonna Take a Village
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
January 26, 2025
7 p.m.
Free
See a moving performance featuring Orlando Choral Society, the UCF Choirs, high school and church choirs, a special guest narrator, soloists, actors, dancers, and more. Seating is not guaranteed and is first come, first served. Please register or join the standby list on their website.
More events of all kinds
Lake Eola Park, Orlando
512 E Washington St
Orlando, FL 32801
(407) 246-4484
Downtown Winter Garden
320 Windford Ct.
Winter Garden, FL 34787
(407) 656-4111
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
445 S Magnolia Ave
Orlando, FL 32801
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