We remember the enduring legacy and leadership of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. each year by gratefully volunteering, listening to inspiring speakers, participating in a meaningful gathering, giving back to our community, or finding a quiet spot to reflect and look ahead.

In 2026, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Jan. 19, but some events will happen in the days ahead of the official holiday. Several communities around Southern California will hold commemorations and parades, so check locally to find out what your neighborhood has planned.

And please note that while some events are free, you may need to RSVP ahead of time; check the event’s site for further details.

Official Los Angeles Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade: The powerful and long-running procession brimming with floats, marching bands, and plenty of spirit will head along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, between Western and Crenshaw Avenues, on Jan. 19. Cedric the Entertainer is the 2026 grand marshal, and several local groups are expected to take part in the effervescent spectacular.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration: This venerable Long Beach festivity begins at 10 a.m. Jan. 17 with a parade kick-off at the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Anaheim Street. Cultural performances will follow the parade at Martin Luther King Jr. Park starting at 12:15 p.m. with a flag ceremony.

Scenes from Life: Unity, the Annual MLK Concert: Enjoy a free performance by the Santa Monica Symphony and Inner City Youth Orchestra at Barnum Hall in Santa Monica. Be sure to RSVP for the Jan. 17 event, which will begin at 3 o’clock. Several stirring songs are part of the program, including “We Shall Overcome.”

Experience the Dream MLK Musical: The Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts will be the place to experience this joyful look-back at the story of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King. On stage Jan. 16, 17, and 18, the new show remembers “the personal and public lives of two of America’s most iconic figures.”

Martin Luther King Jr. Concert: A free program at Herscher Hall at the Skirball Cultural Center is set for Jan. 17, with the Inner City Orchestra of Los Angeles performing, with 100-plus musicians paying tribute to “… the memory of MLK’s commitment to delivering civil rights for Black America.” While tickets are complimentary, you’ll want to reserve your spot in advance.

King Day 2026: The Inner City Youth Orchestra will also perform Jan. 19 at the California African American Museum in Exposition Park, with family activities adding to the holiday celebration. Food trucks will be there, too, and guests are invited to show with children’s books for donation.

Culver City’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration: An uplifting event at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium on Overland Avenue will take place Jan. 17. Live music, food for sale, and activities that honor the Dr. King are on the schedule.

14th Annual MLK Day Clothing Drive & Community Breakfast: Big Sunday is behind this well-loved and well-attended volunteer happening, which includes a meal and the chance to meet neighbors. Come sort clothing for donation, or drop off what you can; it’s happening at South Park Elementary School Jan. 19.

MLK Day Volunteer Festival: Honor those who “transform compassion into action” and savor a celebration that keeps the focus on helping others and giving back. Free tickets are available for the LA Memorial Coliseum event, which is presented by LA Works.