ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Communities across Tampa Bay are gathering to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a civil rights hero and activist who fought for the rights of all people during the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968.
Each year, the Tampa Bay area holds events to commemorate King on the national holiday named in his honor.
Here's a list of Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2024 events happening across Tampa Bay.
WHAT: This family-friendly parade will include floats, marching bands, equestrian groups and decorated vehicles for a variety of local organizations.
WHEN: Noon on Monday, Jan. 15
WHERE: Start-N 15th Street & 21st Avenue | End-N 22nd Street and Osborne Avenue
WHAT: Honor the achievements of Dr. King while embracing the diversity and unity of the St. Pete community.
WHEN: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 15
WHERE: Travels East to West on 1st Avenue South in St. Petersburg
*St. Pete will be hosting a variety of events for MLK Dream Big Weekend, including a band showcase on Sunday and an MLK Family Fun Day after the parade on Monday.
WHAT: Following the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast and Community Awards, a unity walk will be held through Sarasota's historically Black neighborhood of Newtown.
WHEN: 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 15
WHERE: Start- Robert L. Taylor Community Complex | End-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park at 2523 Cocoanut Avenue
WHAT: The city of Clearwater and the NAACP Clearwater Upper Pinellas County Branch's celebration includes a breakfast, a march and live musical performances
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 15
WHERE: North Greenwood Recreation Center, 900 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue
WHAT: Fresh off the College Football Playoff National Championship game, Grand Marshal Michael Penix Jr. will lead this parade of unity and equality.
WHEN: 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13
WHERE: Downtown Dade City starting at Martin Luther King Boulevard