Ragsdale Family Papers, MSS-451, Arizona State University Library.
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day arrives at a perilous moment in American history when many are searching for common ground. Almost six decades after his assassination, Martin Luther King Jr.’s words of peace and unity are never more relevant.
This year, MLK Day in the Valley is marked not only by remembrance of the legendary civil rights leader but by participation. Cities and local organiztions are hosting marches, festivals, parades and programs that center on both unity and community. Some events lean celebratory. Others are more reflective. All aim to keep King’s vision is focus.
The following MLK Day events in Phoenix are free and open to public, each available for Valley residents looking to honor the man and his message during the three-day weekend.
Chandler Multicultural Festival
Saturday, Jan. 17
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler
This free, all-ages festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. celebrates unity, diversity and community, each core values of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. The event features cultural performances from around the world, a car show, interactive activities hosted by the Arizona Cardinals and dozens of local community vendors. Attendees can also collect charms representing participating countries throughout the event.
Unity in Peoria: Celebrating the Dream of Martin Luther King Jr.
Saturday, Jan. 17
Centennial Plaza, 8401 W. Monroe St.
The city of Peoria hosts a free MLK Day event from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Centennial Plaza honoring the life, legacy and enduring vision of Martin Luther King Jr. The program includes The program includes Breanna Pettiette singing the national anthem, the Buffalo Soldiers of Arizona posting the colors and a lineup of spoken word, live music and step-team performances.’
Commemorative Candlelight Service
Sunday, Jan. 18
Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1401 E. Jefferson St.
Community members gather at the church for this annual service offering reflection and prayer from 6 to 8 p.m. on evening before MLK Day. Admission is free.
National Park Service via Flickr
Mesa MLK Parade and Festival
Monday, Jan. 19
Mesa City Center, 56 E. Main St., Mesa
Mesa’s marks MLK Day with its annual parade and festival gathers East Valley residents together for a day of reflection and celebration. The parade through downtown Mesa starts at 11 a.m. at MLK Way and Center Street. The festival will feature live entertainment, food vendors, local organizations and family-friendly activities at the Mesa City Center’s plaza until 4 p.m. Admission is free.
Phoenix Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March and Festival
Monday, Jan. 19
Downtown Phoenix
Arizona’s largest MLK Day gathering brings thousands to downtown Phoenix. A march begins at 9 a.m. at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1401 E. Jefferson St., with the lineup starting at 8:45 a.m. A festival follows from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Margaret T. Hance Park, 67 W. Culver St. More details are available here.
MLK March on West
Wednesday Jan. 21
Arizona State University West’s Kiva Courtyard, 13492 N. 47th Ave.
The 35th edition of this long-running event from ASU students and the public runs from 9 a.m. to noon. It features an educational presentation about the civil rights movement, a musical program and an inspirational performance of MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech by ASU faculty member Charles St. Clair. It’s free to participate.
