Oklahoma City, January 3, 2026
Oklahoma City is preparing to host its 46th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade, a notable event promoting unity and community spirit. Scheduled for January 19, the parade will feature over 100 entries, showcasing local culture and involvement. Participants and spectators alike can look forward to a day filled with celebrations honoring Dr. King’s legacy, including additional events throughout the city. It’s a true testament to the cooperative spirit of Oklahoma City, inviting citizens to come together in remembrance and celebration.
Join Oklahoma City’s Celebration at the 46th MLK Jr. Holiday Parade
Experience unity and community spirit on January 19, 2026!
Oklahoma City is gearing up for a momentous occasion as it prepares to host its 46th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM. This revered event, organized by the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance, stands among the largest parades in the United States, attracting thousands of participants and spectators every year. The theme for 2026, “We Are Better Together,” encapsulates the values of unity and community engagement that resonate deeply within the heart of Oklahoma City.
Such celebrations are a testament to the resilience and dedication of local organizations that strive to foster a spirit of cooperation amidst Oklahoma City’s diverse cultural landscape. The initiative taken by the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance reduces bureaucratic hurdles, allowing for a seamless coordination of events and enabling community members to actively participate in honoring Dr. King’s legacy.
Parade Details
The parade will step off from the corner of Northwest 6th Street and North Walker Avenue, proceeding south along Walker Avenue, through the bustling downtown area, and concluding in the vibrant Bricktown Entertainment District. Attendees can expect a lively procession featuring more than 100 entries, including marching bands, community floats, and local leaders, all of which showcase the distinctive cultural fabric of our city.
Registration Information
Organizations and individuals eager to be part of the parade need to register with the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance. The registration fee is $45 for entries submitted by January 6, 2026. Late registrations will be accepted until January 10, 2026, and will incur a fee of $75. Participants are encouraged to creatively embody the theme “We Are Better Together” in their entries. Comprehensive registration details can be found on the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance website.
Additional Events
Beyond the parade, the MLK Day celebrations will feature an array of events throughout the day:
- 7:30 AM – Breakfast Program: Held at the MWC Reed Center.
- 9:00 AM – Opening Program: Community gathering at the Freedom Center of Oklahoma City.
- 10:30 AM – National Bell Ringing Ceremony: A solemn tribute at the Oklahoma History Center.
- 12:15 PM – Holiday Program: Traditional service featuring keynote speakers at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral (127 NW 7th St).
- 2:00 PM – MLK Holiday Parade: The main event begins at NW 6th and Walker.
Transportation and Parking
For convenience, parking is available throughout downtown, with street closures near Walker Avenue starting at noon. The Bricktown parking garages are recommended for those looking to park near the parade’s conclusion. Public transit options will be in regular service, including buses and the OKC Streetcar, with fare waived for the day. Note that EMBARK’s Transit Center Customer Service and the 235-RIDE Call Center will operate on reduced hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Weather Considerations
As Oklahoma City weather can be unpredictable in January, attendees are advised to dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the parade route spans several downtown blocks. Checking the forecast in advance will ensure a more enjoyable experience.
About the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance
For over 40 years, the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance has been dedicated to honoring Dr. King’s legacy while promoting unity and engagement within the community. They cordially invite all citizens and organizations to participate in the celebration of Dr. King’s life and work, reinforcing the importance of local involvement in community activities.
Contact Information
For additional information or to register for the parade, please visit the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance website. Stay connected through their social media channels for updates and other details concerning the 2026 MLK Holiday Events.
FAQ
What is the theme for the 2026 Oklahoma City MLK Parade?
The theme for the 2026 Oklahoma City MLK Parade is “We Are Better Together,” emphasizing unity and community spirit.
When and where does the parade take place?
The parade is scheduled for Monday, January 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM, starting at the corner of Northwest 6th Street and North Walker Avenue in downtown Oklahoma City.
How can I participate in the parade?
Organizations and individuals interested in participating must register with the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance. The registration fee is $45 for entries received by January 6, 2026, and $75 for late registrations accepted until January 10, 2026. Detailed registration information is available on the Oklahoma City MLK Alliance website.
What other events are planned for MLK Day in Oklahoma City?
In addition to the parade, the MLK Day celebrations include a breakfast program, opening program, national bell ringing ceremony, and a holiday program featuring keynote speakers at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral.
How can I get to the parade?
Parking is available throughout downtown, with street closures near Walker Avenue starting at noon. The Bricktown parking garages are recommended for those wishing to be near the parade’s end. Public transit services, including buses and the OKC Streetcar, will operate on a regular schedule, with free fare for the day. EMBARK’s Transit Center Customer Service and 235-RIDE Call Center will have reduced hours (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.).
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 46th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade |
| Theme | We Are Better Together |
| Date and Time | Monday, January 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM |
| Location | Downtown Oklahoma City, starting at NW 6th and Walker |
| Parade Route | South on Walker Avenue through downtown to Bricktown Entertainment District |
| Registration Fee | $45 by January 6, 2026; $75 for late registrations until January 10, 2026 |
| Public Transit | Free fare for the day; buses operate on a weekend schedule; OKC Streetcar and OKC PLUS operate on a regular schedule |
| Parking | Available throughout downtown; Bricktown parking garages recommended for parade’s end |
| Weather Considerations | Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes; check the forecast and plan accordingly |
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