Miami is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. We're a colorful gumbo of backgrounds, cultures, languages, orientations and more. In many ways, Miami embodies the goals and sentiments expressed by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
While Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a special day of remembrance throughout the country, there are likely not many where it means more. Fittingly, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade in Miami is one of the city's festive celebrations of an American Civil Rights icon.
Candlelight Vigil in North Miami
While parades and celebrations are certainly fun, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Miami is also about solemn remembrance. MOCA Plaza in North Miami provides the ideal space for that with its annual evening candlelight vigil. This year's event takes place on Wednesday, January 16 at 6 p.m. It's a beautiful night of spoken word poetry, song, dance, and more.
Fostering a sense of community was at the heart of much of Dr. King's message, and there are few better ways to achieve that than by dining together. Homestead hosts an annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day breakfast centered around discussion and reflection. This year's event takes place on Friday, January 18 at 7 a.m. at the Phicol Williams Community Center in Homestead.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 5K
Fitness and charity is a part of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Miami celebrations as well. Starting at 8 a.m. on Monday, January 21, adults and youth alike have the opportunity to participate in the charitable event. Participation is $25 for those over 14 years old and $15 for those under 14.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade
Liberty City's Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade is probably the first notable event of the year in Miami. This year's parade takes place on Monday, January 21 and features high school marching bands, athletes, cheerleaders, floats, crafts marketplaces, and food vendors.
Liberty City is one of Miami's oldest communities and its connection to African Americans is longstanding, going back to 1937. The historically-black area has grown increasingly diverse over the years as families from the disaspora of Afro-Caribbean communities have joined the long-time residents in recent decades.
Today, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day parade is a celebration of America's and Miami's diversity. There's also Caribbean twist to the day's events as Carnival-style dancers join the fray!
The greatest influencers deserve the greatest honors. As we approach Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Miami, we hope you'll spend time at one of these events to honor Dr. King.
Find more events in Miami by registering on 305area, your free guide to all things Miami.
Cover photo courtesy of Unsplash
