Happy Holidays! Wishing you a joyful and warm holiday season—whether celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or simply gathering with loved ones. May this special time of year bring you warmth, good health, and happiness, and may you remain safe and well as you celebrate with family and friends.

I'd like to warmly invite all residents, organizations, and businesses to join the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade & Celebration. If you're interested in walking in the parade, the celebration, or volunteering, please submit your application by Monday, January 5, 2026. If you would like more information about the application process, please email lbmlkevent@gmail.com.

Together, we can continue to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy.

This year’s theme, “Rise Up, Stand Up for His Dream,” reminds us to take action in our daily lives by standing for justice, equality, and unity, and to actively carry forward Dr. King’s vision through service, advocacy, and love for our community.

The 2026 festivities will begin with the parade kickoff at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and Anaheim Street, followed by the park celebration from noon to 5 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Park (1950 Lemon Ave.). The park celebration will include a main stage with performances, a health and wellness area, a youth area, food and merchandise vendors, and information booths.

The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration has become a longstanding tradition that celebrates the diverse community of Central Long Beach. This festival serves to honor and keep alive the many values of Dr. King through arts, remembrance and meaningful perspectives. 

Poetry Contest

The 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Poetry Contest is an exciting opportunity for students to express their creativity and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by promoting unity, equality, and justice for all people in the City of Long Beach.

Who May Apply?

Long Beach students in Grades K - 12 are eligible to participate in the poetry contest. 

Entries must be received by Monday, January 5th 2026

Chief of Staff: Chork Nim

Field Deputy: Jasmine Piceno

Community Liaison Aide: Sokun Men

Legislative Deputy: Jon'Nae Sylvester

City Hall

411 W. Ocean Boulevard, 11th Floor

Long Beach, CA 90802

Email: District6@longbeach.gov

Phone: (562) 570-6816

If you are experiencing an emergency, please call: 911