When is the official MLK Holiday Observance?

The official MLK Holiday Observance will be on Monday January 16. It is the official holiday established by Congress in 1978 observing the birthdate of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 15.

What is the date for the MLK Holiday DC Parade 2023?

The MLK Holiday Peace Walk and Parade will be held on Monday, January 16, 2023.

Where will participants for the MLK Holiday 2023 Parade assemble and what is the route?
Participants will assemble at the RISE Center on the campus of St. Elizabeth’s on 2700 Martin Luther King Jr., Ave SE. The parade will proceed onto Martin Luther King Jr., Ave SE, and continue north on MLK (towards downtown Anacostia), pass the reviewing stand on MLK between V and W Streets, S.E., and turn left into Anacostia Park at Good Hope Road.
What time should participants begin to assemble?
All participants are expected to assemble by 10:30 AM. Registration will be held inside of the RISE Center where participants will be provided their designated space in the lineup.
What time will the MLK Holiday Parade begin?
The parade will begin at 11 am.
What time will the parade end?
2 PM
Will this year’s MLK Holiday DC observance also include the Peace Walk?
Yes, the peace walk will lead the MLK parade.
Who are the coordinators of the Peace Walk?
Edward Hardy Duwann Mason Regina Pixley
Who is the coordinator of the Clergy Walk?
Rev. George Gilbert
Where will participants in the MLK Holiday DC Peace Walk 2023 assemble?
Peace walk participants will assemble at Shepherd Park at MLK and Malcolm X Avenues at 10 AM. A rally will be held at 10:30 and the Peace Walkers will proceed onto MLK Avenue and head North toward St. Elizabeths.
Are Peace Walkers able to join their respective organizations in the parade?
Yes. Once the Peace Walkers arrive at the entrance of St. Elizabeth’s on MLK, participants can join their organization in the parade. Others will remain on MLK to lead the MLK parade marchers.
Does my organization need to register for the Peace Walk?
Yes. Individuals and organizations must register at www.MLKholidaydc.org. 
Is there a cost to participate in the Peace Walk?
No, there is no cost to participate in the MLK Holiday Peace rally or Peace Walk. However, there is a $75 fee for individuals or organizations that wish to have their name included as a sponsor of the MLK Holiday DC events. There is also a $100 fee for vehicles to participate in the parade. Fees can be paid at www.MLKholidaydc.org
What is the theme of the MLK Holiday DC 2023?
Recapture The Dream Lift Every Voice: ‘Till Victory is Won!
Are there any details about the MLK Holiday DC Prayer Breakfast?
Yes, The MLK Holiday DC Prayer Breakfast will be held on Saturday, January 14 from 10 AM to 12:30 AM. The event will be held at THEARC Black Box Theatre at 1901 Mississippi Ave., S.E. The cost to attend the breakfast is $25 per person. Visit www.MLKholidaydc.org to register for the prayer breakfast. Registration will also be held on site.
Are there any details for the MLK Holiday DC Essay Contest?
Yes. The Essay contest is coordinated again this year by the Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute. Students in elementary, middle and high school are eligible to participate. The deadline for essay submissions is January 6, 2023. For more information visit:mylialumni@gmail.com 
Are there any additional programs being held for the MLK Holiday DC Observance?
Yes. First Fridays will host an Evening of Remembrance on Friday, January 13 from 6-9 PM at Living Word Baptist Church, 4200 MLK Avenue, S.W. 
Will there be a Health Fair held again this year?
Yes, the MLK Holiday DC Health and Wellness Fair will be held on Monday, January 16 from 10:30 AM to 2 PM in the PNC parking lot adjacent to BusBoys and Poets on MLK Avenue., S.E.  For more information visit: contact Wendell wwhrenjr@gmail.com
Where will the parade reviewing stand be located?
The reviewing stand will be located at MLK and W Streets, S.W. near the Big Chair.
Who are this year’s parade grand marshals?
This year’s grand marshals include: Yango Sawyer – Co-founder of the MLK Peace Walk Sandra Seegers – Community Activist Ariel Atkins – Guard for the Mystic Player
Are there volunteer opportunities for the parade?
Yes, volunteers are needed for every event including marshals for the parade, hosts for the prayer breakfast, workers for the clean-up committee and social media outreach.
How can I volunteer?
Visit www.mlkholidaydc.org to sign up for volunteer opportunities.
Can I donate to support the MLK Holiday DC events?
We thought you’d never ask. Yes, you can make your tax-deductible donation at www.MLKholidaydc.org
Who should I contact if I have any additional questions about the MLK Holiday DC Peace Walk and Parade?
You can contact: Stuart Anderson at mlkholidayparade@gmail.com, or Denise Rolark Barnes at drb@wicharities.org or Pege Gilgannon at pegeketchup@gmail.com