Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and dignity for all continues to inspire our collective efforts toward a more inclusive society. This January, we invite you to honor his legacy by participating in events throughout California. Here are some notable gatherings:

Northern California

San Francisco: MLK March and Music Festival
Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
Time: March begins at 11:00 AM; Music Festival follows
Location: March starts at San Francisco Caltrain Station; Festival at Yerba Buena Gardens
Details: Join the annual march honoring Dr. King’s legacy, followed by a music festival featuring live performances. Other events are scheduled throughout the week. More Information

Oakland: MLK Day of Service
Date: January 17-19 and 24, 2026
Location: Various sites across the city
Details: Join the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service for a day of action and community impact! Honor Dr. King’s legacy by caring for Oakland’s environment and uplifting our neighborhoods through hands-on service. More Information

Sacramento: 44th Annual March for the Dream
Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
Time: The Extra Mile begins at 8:00 AM; the Classic March begins at 8:30 AM
Location: Extra Mile departs at Oak Park Community Center – 3425 MLK Jr Blvd. Classic March departs at Hughes Stadium, Sac City College – 3835 Freeport Blvd.
Details: Sacramento’s largest MLK Day march, bringing together diverse communities to honor Dr. King’s legacy. More Information

Sacramento: 27th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Dinner
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Time: Registration at 5:00 PM; Program begins at 6:00 PM
Location: Sacramento State University – University Ballroom
Details: Guests will enjoy an evening of inspiration, recognition, and community unity. The program includes a keynote address, performances, and the presentation of the Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award. More Information

Central California

Fresno: 42nd Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Dates: January 16 – 19, 2026
Highlights:

  • Garlanding Ceremony: January 16, 11:45 AM at Courthouse Park
  • Community Breakfast: January 17, 9:00 AM at Clovis Veterans Memorial District
  • Peace Vigil: January 18, 2:00 PM at Impact Church, 1461 N. Chestnut Avenue
  • City of Fresno March: January 19, 9:30 AM at St. John’s Cathedral
  • Commemoration Program and Community Awards: January 19, 11:00 AM at Veterans Memorial Auditorium
    Details: A series of events honoring Dr. King’s legacy, including marches, vigils, and community programs. More Information

Southern California

Los Angeles: MLK 2026 Volunteer Festival
Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, 3911 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90037
Details: From wildfire recovery and uplifting displaced families, to standing with immigrant communities under threat of deportation, let’s join together to bring about Dr. King’s vision of a Beloved Community this MLK Day of Service. More Information

San Diego: 44th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
Time: Parade starts at 11:00 AM
Location: Harbor Drive South from Ash to Pacific Highway
Details: One of the largest celebrations in honor of Dr. King, featuring floats, bands, drill teams, and community organizations. More Information

We encourage you to join these events and stand together in solidarity as we honor Dr. King’s legacy and continue the fight for justice and equality. Know of other MLK events happening in your area? Share them with us and your fellow members on Facebook or Instagram!

 

In Solidarity,
SEIU Local 1000