What day is MLK Day 2025? Marches and celebrations in Phoenix

On By Littum

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Dr. The spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. is alive and thriving as communities in the city of Phoenix come together to celebrate his lasting legacy with festivals, community events, marches and impactful service projects.

These gatherings honor King’s dream of a united, equal and inclusive society and encourage people to come together to reflect on his contribution to the civil rights movement.

Participants engage in volunteer work, educational programs and performances that help ensure that King’s message of peace and community empowerment continues to resonate with people today.

Here are ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2025 around the Phoenix metro station.

Chandler Multicultural Festival

The Chandler Multicultural Festival celebrates its 30th year as part of the city’s annual Celebration of Unity. It honors the community’s diversity and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through live performances, cultural activities and family-friendly fun. Highlights include music and dancing on two stages, a Custom Cruiser Car Show, an International Shopping Market and food from a variety of cuisines.

Details: 11.00-18.00 Saturday 18 January. Dr. AJ Chandler Park: Stage Plaza, 178 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Free. chandleraz.gov.

Glendale Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Service day

Dr. The Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service in Glendale invites the community to honor King’s legacy of service and unity through hands-on volunteerism. In collaboration with HandsOn Greater Phoenix and St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance will have volunteers pick up citrus fruits at Sahuaro Ranch Park and Manistee Ranch Park. The fruit collected will be donated to families in need. Residents can also hand in freshly picked citrus for donation during the event.

Details: 9.00-noon Saturday 18 January. Sahuaro Ranch Park, 9802 N. 59th Ave., Glendale. Manistee Ranch Park, 5127 W. Northern Ave., Glendale. Free. glendaleaz.com.

Surprise Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and service

The MLK Day of Celebration in Surprise combines a motivational program with hands-on service projects. The program highlights the work of local nonprofits, clubs and individuals while showcasing inspirational performances and multimedia presentations centered on the theme, “Everyone Can Be Good Because Everyone Can Serve.”

Details: 8.00, Saturday 18 January. Willow Canyon High School, 17901 W. Lundberg St., Surprise. Free. surpriseaz.gov.

Peoria MLK Jr. Community party

Peoria’s MLK Jr. event celebrates King’s dream of a “beloved community.” This community-focused event will feature art, culture, live music and food, all with the goal of bringing people together in the name of unity and equality.

Details: 15.00-18.00 Saturday 18 January. Centennial Plaza, Peoria Municipal Complex, 8401 W. Monroe St., Peoria. Free. peoriaaz.gov.

Anthem MLK Day Celebration

Anthem MLK Day Celebration & Unity Walk 2025 invites the community to come together with a Unity Walk, activities for children, nonprofit booths and opportunities to give back through a fundraiser.

Details: 10.00 on Monday 20 January. Anthem Civic Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way, Anthem. Free. anthemcouncil.com.

Mesa MLK Parade and Festival 2025

Mesa-East Valley Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The Celebration Parade and Festival invites the community to celebrate King’s legacy with the theme “Building Bridges: Cultivating Our Community.” The parade will showcase local groups, schools and organizations, followed by a festival filled with food, vendors and entertainment.

Details: Parade: at 11. Festival: Immediately after the parade. Monday, January 20 Downtown Mesa; check the website for parade route and festival location. Free. mesaevmlk.org.

Phoenix Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March and festival

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The March & Festival in Phoenix is ​​a beloved tradition. Hosted by Arizona Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee, this event unites city leaders, schools, businesses and community organizations in memory of King. It begins with a march from Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church to Margaret T. Hance Park, followed by a festival of music, food and activities.

Details: Monday 20 January. March starts at 8:45; the festival is 10:00-16:00. March: Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. Festival: Margaret T. Hance Park, 67 W. Culver St., Phoenix. Free. azmlk.org.

Glendale 34th Annual MLK March on West

This event has been a tradition on Arizona State University’s west campus since 1991. This event engages middle school students, the ASU community and the public to honor King and delve into the history of the transformative March on Washington in 1963.

Details: 9:00 a.m.-noon on Wednesday, January 22. ASU West Campus, 4701 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale. Free. mlk.asu.edu.

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