Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is an annual observance dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of the civil rights leader who championed equality, justice and nonviolent protest. Celebrated across the nation, this day often includes parades, performances and community events focused on Dr. King's vision for racial harmony and social justice.
This year, the holiday falls on Monday, Jan. 20, and in North Texas, the elebrations will feature a range of activities, from the Collin County MLK Parade in Plano to a week of events in Dallas highlighting themes of diversity, equity and opportunity. The festivities, which include performances, educational programs and community service projects, aim to inspire action and reflection on the continued pursuit of Dr. King's dream of a more just society.
Here’s our curated list of events to celebrate this day:
2025 Collin County MLK Parade
When: Jan. 20, 2025 | 10 a.m.
Where: Douglass Mural, 1099- 901 12th Place, Plano
More info and reservation
Collin County's MLK parade celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring community partnerships and a historic route in Plano. Following the parade, a celebration awaits at the corner of I Avenue and 13th Street, with activities for children, including a scavenger hunt, arts and crafts and a time capsule at the Plano African American Museum.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Week
When: Jan. 10-18, 2025 | Times vary
Where: Dallas
More info
The City of Dallas honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy with a week of events focusing on equity, diversity and opportunity. Highlights include a day of reflection, job fair, symposium, youth summit and the iconic MLK Day Parade, which will be held on Jan. 18. The 2025 MLK Day Parade will begin at the Fair Park Pennsylvania entrance, featuring around 250 entries, including community organizations, church groups and youth teams. Participants will follow a new route due to ongoing construction and registration is required for all entrants.
Frisco Unity Day
When: Jan. 18, 2025 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Where: George A. Purefoy Municipal Center, 6101 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco
More info
This event honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and legacy with gospel and jazz performances, light refreshments and a citywide service project. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned or packaged food donations to support Frisco Family Services.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Power Leadership Breakfast
When: Jan. 18, 2025 | 8 a.m.
Where: Collin College, Plano Campus Living Legends Conference Center, 2800 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano
Registration
This annual breakfast celebrates Dr. King’s life and legacy under the theme “Connecting Hearts. Inspiring Change.” Attendees will enjoy student performances, presentations and a panel discussion on mental health led by local leaders. The event is free and open to the public. Early arrival is recommended due to expected high turnout.
Plano Community Forum MLK Event
When: Jan. 19, 2025 | 4 p.m.
Where: Robinson Fine Arts Center, 1800 Alma Drive, Plano
More info
Celebrate Dr. King’s legacy with an afternoon of performances, speakers and community reflections. Hosted by the Plano Community Forum, this event is designed to inspire unity and dialogue.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Community Celebration
When: Jan. 19, 2025 | 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Plano ISD Robinson Fine Arts Center, 1800 Alma Dr, Plano
More info
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with an inspiring community event featuring music, student performances and powerful speakers. The program emphasizes freedom, justice and democracy through nonviolence, with highlights including the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church Choir and guest speaker Rev. Dr. Cassandry Keys Jones.
42nd Annual Black Music & Civil Rights Concert - Featuring Eric Benet
When: Jan. 19, 2025 | 7:30 p.m.
Where: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St., Dallas
Tickets $40
Experience a powerful evening of narration, music and dance celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement, featuring Grammy-winning Eric Benet, Amber Bullock and a 100-voice choir from The Black Academy of Arts and Letters. This concert offers a moving tribute through music and reflection on pivotal moments of the 1960s era.
8th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Appreciation Day Service
When: Jan. 20, 2025 | 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Creekwood United Methodist Church, 261 Country Club Road, Allen
More info
Collin County’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration brings the community together to honor his legacy through reflection, service and inspiring words. Highlights include keynote speeches, heartfelt performances and a focus on the theme "Tragedy in Memphis," featuring special guests and tributes to Dr. King's enduring impact.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Diversity Celebration
When: Jan. 23, 2025 | 6:30 p.m.
Where: Robinson Fine Arts Center, 1800 Alma Drive, Plano
More info
The 38th Annual MLK Diversity Celebration highlights student talent and community leadership in honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy. It's an inspiring event that showcases the diversity and unity within Plano ISD and the surrounding community.
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