City News Blog: 47th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Celebrating “Unity Through Diversity”
LAKELAND, FL (January 2, 2025) | The City of Lakeland is excited to announce the 47th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade on Saturday, January 18, 2025, starting at 1:00 PM. This year’s theme, "Unity Through Diversity," will bring together over 100 participants in a celebration of Dr. King’s legacy of equality and unity.
The parade will begin at the intersection of Providence Road and West 14th Street, travel down Providence Road, turn east on 10th Street, and head south on MLK Avenue, concluding at 2nd Street. Attendees can expect a colorful procession featuring professional floats, dance teams, decorated vehicles, marching bands, car clubs, and more.
Judges will award parade participants in categories such as Walkers, Decorated Vehicle, Professional Float, Flatbed/Trailer, Dance Group, Car Club, Band, and Unique Cars/Trucks. Parade judging will take place at the intersection of MLK Avenue and 5th Street. First, second, and third place winners will be recognized, along with a Judge’s Honorable Mention at a later date.
The City of Lakeland thanks its partners, The Rev. Dr. MLK Commission of Lakeland, and MidFlorida, for their continued support in making this annual event a success.
The community is encouraged to attend the MLK Parade and celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. For more information, visit lakelandgov.net/MLK or contact the organizers by emailing MLKParade@lakelandgov.net.
Contact
Kevin Cook
Director of Communications
City of Lakeland
863.834.6264
Kevin.Cook@LakelandGov.net
About Lakeland
The City of Lakeland was incorporated in January 1885 and has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida. With a current population fast approaching 130,000 Lakeland continues to grow. It has been designated a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census Bureau for over 30 years. With tourist attractions and gulf beaches only an hour away, Lakeland continues to capitalize on its ideal central Florida location along the I-4 corridor. The City owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third largest publicly owned utility in Florida and it was one of the first to offer power in the Sunshine State in 1889.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit www.lakelandgov.net. Citizens are also invited to follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Vimeo, Snapchat and Nextdoor. Citizens can find the City of Lakeland on these social media platforms by searching lakelandgov.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please explore LakelandGov.net.
Citizens are also invited to follow the City on social media.