When is the official MLK Holiday Observance?
The official MLK Holiday Observance is celebrated on the third Monday of January to commemorate the life and legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. It is the official holiday established by Congress in 1978 observing the Dr. King's actual birthdate on January 15.
This year's parade will take place on Monday, January 19, 2026.
FOR GENERAL ATTENDEES
Q: What time should I arrive?
A: The event begins with a Peace Rally at 9:30 AM, Peace Walk step-off at 10:30am, and the Parade starts at 11 AM.
Q: Is the event free?
A: Yes, the Peace Walk & Parade is free and open to the public; however, we have other activities you may participate in (free and paid). Learn more
Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited street parking is available.
Q: What is the nearest Metro station?
A: Anacostia Metro and Congress Heights Metro
FOR PARADE PARTICIPANTS
Q: Where is check-in, and what are the times?
A: Participants must check in by 10:00 AM. Lineup begins at 10:30 AM, and the parade starts following the Peace Walk procession.
Q: Can we still register to march?
A: Yes, Register to march here
Q: Can we have a mobile unit in the parade?
A: Yes; however, a Certificate of Insurance AND a fee is required for mobile units only. $100 Non-Profits | $250 All Others
Q: How should participants handle music for their performance?
A: For the parade procession, use a cart or wagon with a loudspeaker for playback.
Q: Where does the parade end, and how do we exit?
A: Buses, parents and car pickups will be coordinated near the end of the parade route. After your performance, groups are welcomed to stay and particpate in activities.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, street parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Q: What is the nearest Metro station?
A: Anacostia Metro
Q: Can parade participants also participate in the Peace Walk & Rally?
A: Yes, parade participants are welcomed to join the Peace Walk & Rally. Once the Peace Walkers arrive at the start of the parade route, participants can join their organization in the parade lineup.
FOR WELLNESS FAIR EXHIBITORS
Q: What is the focus of the Wellness Fair this year?
A: The annual MLK Holiday DC Hopeful Healing Health and Wellness Fair focuses on meeting the community's mental health needs, offering hope, and equipping attendees with essential resources and services.
Q: Where and when is the Wellness Fair?
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
- Time: 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM
- Location: PNC Parking Lot (next door to Far Southeast - 2006 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE)
Q: How much does it cost to be an exhibitor?
- Government and Non-Profit Tables: $25
- Commercial Vendor Spaces: $100
Q: What types of services are prioritized?
A: Priority is given to exhibitors providing health services such as medical screenings, life-saving demonstrations, nutritional guidance, and chiropractic or massage therapy.
Q: What are the load-in and load-out times?
- Load In: 8:00 AM to 9:15 AM (please set up early to avoid traffic shutdowns). Sign in with Jaren at the parking lot entrance upon arrival.
- Load Out: 2:00 PM
Q: What should I bring?
- Bring your own table and chairs.
- Note: Exhibitors may NOT distribute food.
Q: What will be provided?
A: Assigned exhibit space will be provided.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, street parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Q: What is the nearest Metro station?
A: Anacostia Metro
Q: How do I register or ask questions?
- Email: wwhrenjr@gmail.com
- Phone: John at 703-343-5186
Q: Is the Wellness Fair free to attend?
A: Yes, the event is FREE to the public, but registration is required.
For more information, visit the event resources:
- Social Media Toolkit: Link
PEACE WALK & RALLY
Q: What is the schedule for the Peace Walk & Rally?
- 9:30 AM: Peace Rally
- 10:30 AM: Peace Walk step-off
- Note: The parade procession will follow the Peace Walk.
Q: What is the focus of the Peace Rally this year?
A: TBA
Q: Do I need to register to participate in the Peace Walk or Rally?
A: Registration for the Peace Walk or Rally is optional; however, we recommnend registering to stay informed.
Q: What is the starting location for the Peace Walk?
A: The Peace Walk begins at Firth Sterling Avenue and Sumner Road S.E. and steps off at 10:30 AM.
Q: Can parade participants (marchers) also participate in the Peace Walk & Rally?
A: Yes, parade participants are welcome to join the Peace Walk & Rally. Once the Peace Walkers arrive to the parade starting point, participants should join their organization in the parade lineup.
For additional resources, check:
- Social Media Toolkit: Link
VOLUNTEERING
MLK Holiday DC Community Service Project
Each year, for the holiday observance, we organize a cleanup along the parade route on (or before) the day of the parade.
We’ll provide trash bags and tools. Dress warmly and bring gloves.
Questions? Contact Maurice Foushee at mauricekf@msn.com or text 301-980-3077.
PARADE ROUTE & STREET CLOSURES
The 2026 proposed parade route will begin at Firth Sterling Avenue and Sumner Road S.E., at 11:00 a.m. and end on Marion Barry Avenue SE.
The procession will proceed east on Sumner Road, left on MLK Jr. Avenue, right onto Marion Barry Avenue and end at the Park by 2 p.m.
The Reviewing Stand will be located at Martin Luther King Avenue and V. Street, S.E.
The Health & Wellness Fair will be set up in the PNC parking lot, on MLK Jr. Avenue S.E. (next door to Far Southeast), inside of the large heated tent.
Street Closure Timelines – (rolling street closures)
9:30 AM – Sumner Road, SE where the parade begins
Rolling Street Closures begin:
- Sumner road SE
- Mlk Jr ave SE
- Talbert Street and MLK Ave SE
- Morris Road and MLK Ave SE
- Chicago Street and MLK Ave SE
- Maple View Place and MLK Ave SE
- Pleasant Street and MLK Ave SE
- W Street and MLK Ave SE
- V Street and MLK Ave SE
- U Street and MLK Ave SE
- Marion Barry Avenue and MLK Ave SE (As the procession approaches)
- 11th Street Bridge and Marion Barry Ave SE (As needed)
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. For more information email:mylialumni@gmail.com
Are there any additional programs being held for the MLK Holiday DC Observance?
Yes. View events here
Who are this year’s parade grand marshals?
To be announced.
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
click DONATE TODAY
Who should I contact if I have any additional questions about the MLK Holiday DC Peace Walk and Parade?
Martin Luther King Holiday DC Committee
(202) 561-4100 Ext. 120
Email: info@mlkholidaydc.org
Website: www.mlkholidaydc.org
Facebook: @MLKHolidayDC115
Instagram: @MLKHolidayDC115