2026 Events
MLK Community Potluck- Thursday, January 15th at 6PM at First Institutional Missionary Baptist Church
Let's gather as a community for a Potluck Dinner Party! Bring your favorite dish to First Institutional Missionary Baptist Church to share and enjoy a great evening with good food and great company. We will have music, fun, games/activities, and photo opportunities!
MLK Oratorical Contest- Friday, January 16th at 6PM at James P Austin Community Center
We are calling all young voices K-5!
We are excited to announce our annual MLK Oratorical Contest for kids, where young speakers can share their thoughts, dreams, and powerful words inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy. This is their chance to express themselves, speak from the heart, and inspire others with their voice.
We are now accepting speeches. For additional info please contact lwmlk2009@gmail.com.
Unity Walk and Wellness Expo- Saturday, January 17th at 8:30am at Kiwanis Park and James P Austin Community Center at 10am
We’re inviting businesses, churches, clubs, organizations, and schools to come out and represent your tribe at the Annual MLK Unity Walk! Pick a team shirt color, rally your group with a Facebook post or video, and show up strong. The group with the largest turnout takes the win!
The walk will begin at Kiwanis Park and end at A Street Park. After the walk, join us at the JPA Community Center at 10:00 AM for our Wellness Expo, featuring health vendors, valuable resources, and light refreshments for everyone to enjoy.
Gospel Extravaganza- Sunday, January 18th at 4pm at First Institutional Missionary Baptist Church
The MLK Gospel Extravaganza is an uplifting celebration of faith, unity, and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Through powerful gospel music and praise, the community comes together to rejoice, reflect, and be inspired by a message of hope, love, and togetherness. All are welcome to experience this moving evening of worship and celebration.
LAKE WALES MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY- Monday, January 19th
Breakfast Mingle 8:30am-10:30am at JPA Community Center
Breakfast Mingle 8:30am-10:30am at JPA Community Center
Breakfast Mingle 8:30am-10:30am at JPA Community Center
Join us for a warm and welcoming MLK Breakfast Mingle hosted by your Lake Wales MLK Foundation. This community gathering is an opportunity to connect, reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, and build meaningful relationships over breakfast. All are welcome as we come together in unity, conversation, and service to our community.
Annual MLK Parade at 3PM
Breakfast Mingle 8:30am-10:30am at JPA Community Center
Breakfast Mingle 8:30am-10:30am at JPA Community Center
The Annual Lake Wales MLK Parade is a celebration of unity, service, and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Featuring community groups, schools, churches, organizations, and local leaders, the parade brings our city together to honor Dr. King’s dream. All are invited to line the streets and be part of this meaningful tradition on
The Annual Lake Wales MLK Parade is a celebration of unity, service, and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Featuring community groups, schools, churches, organizations, and local leaders, the parade brings our city together to honor Dr. King’s dream. All are invited to line the streets and be part of this meaningful tradition on Lincoln Avenue. For vendor or parade inquiries, please refer to the link below.
Commemorative Celebration
Breakfast Mingle 8:30am-10:30am at JPA Community Center
Commemorative Celebration
Following the parade, stick around to enjoy the Commemorative Celebration where the community has the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, share laughter, and honor this special occasion. Enjoy a variety of vendors, community fellowship, and a festive atmosphere as we continue celebrating the legacy and spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. together.