2026 MLK Holiday DC Annual Peace Walk & Parade

21st Annual MLK Holiday DC Peace Walk & Parade: "The Struggle is Real! The Fight is Still!"

Join the Washington D.C. community for a multi-day celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. This 2026 observance is more than just a parade; it is a call to action featuring a peace rally, a community clean-up, a wellness fair, and a commemorative prayer breakfast.

📅 Event At-A-Glance

• Main Event Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
• Kickoff Event: Saturday, January 17, 2026 (Prayer Breakfast)
• Location: Historic Anacostia / Ward 8, Washington D.C.
• Cost: Parade and Wellness Fair are FREE; Prayer Breakfast is a ticketed event.
• Theme: "THE STRUGGLE IS REAL! THE FIGHT IS STILL!"

🎤 Full 2026 Agenda

Saturday, January 17, 2026

• MLK Prayer Breakfast (9:00 AM – 12:30 PM): A spiritual kickoff featuring clergy and faith leaders.
• Location: Covenant Baptist UCC, 3845 S Capitol St, SW, Washington, DC.
• Tickets: $35 per person.

Monday, January 19, 2026 (MLK Day)

• MLK Peace Rally (9:30 AM): Community gathering and speeches at Sandlot Anacostia (Firth Sterling Ave & Sumner Rd SE).
• MLK Peace Walk & Parade (10:30 AM – 2:00 PM): * 10:30 AM: Peace Walk officially steps off.
• 11:00 AM: The Parade procession follows immediately behind the walkers.
• Health & Wellness Fair (10:30 AM – 2:00 PM): Resources focused on mental health and community hope.
• Location: PNC Parking lot (next to Far Southeast - 2006 MLK Jr Ave SE).
• Community Clean Up (10:30 AM – 1:45 PM): A service project along the parade route.
• Check-in: Pick up supplies at Sandlot Anacostia.

📍 2026 Parade Route & Logistics

The parade travels through the soul of Southeast D.C., showcasing the vibrant culture of Anacostia.

• Starting Point: The procession begins at Firth Sterling Avenue and Sumner Road SE.
• The Route: Moves East on Sumner Road, turns left onto Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, and continues toward Marion Barry Avenue SE.
• Ending Point: The parade concludes near the Anacostia Park area.
• Reviewing Stand: Typically located at the intersection of MLK Avenue and V Street SE.

🎺 What to Expect: Highlights & Participants

• Service in Action: Unlike many other parades, this event integrates a Community Clean-Up, allowing participants to "make the path clean" as they honor Dr. King.
• Wellness Focus: The Health & Wellness Fair provides free resources, specifically targeting mental health needs and providing hope to community members.
• Dynamic Performances: Expect high-energy marching bands, local DC "Go-Go" influence, community floats, and youth organizations.

🚆 Getting There: Parking & Transportation

Because of the heavy crowds and rolling street closures in Ward 8, public transit is the best option.

• Metro: The Anacostia Metro Station (Green Line) is the closest stop and is within walking distance of the starting rally point.
• Parking: Street parking is extremely limited. If driving, aim for areas further from MLK Jr. Ave and walk in, or use the parking garages near the Anacostia Metro.
• Street Closures: Expect rolling closures along MLK Jr. Avenue SE from 9:00 AM until roughly 3:00 PM.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I bring for the Clean-Up?

Organizers provide trash bags and grabbers. You are encouraged to dress warmly and bring your own work gloves.

Is the Wellness Fair free?

Yes, it is free to the public, though registration is highly recommended to ensure you receive available community resources.

What happens if it’s very cold or raining?

The Peace Walk and Parade are "rain or shine" events. The Wellness Fair typically features a large heated tent to provide a warm space for attendees.

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