> At a Glance
> – The 2026 City of Dallas MLK Parade steps off at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 19 from MLK Blvd and S.M. Wright
> – Over 200 entries-floats, dance teams, first responders, youth groups-will entertain an expected crowd of 25,000-70,000
> – Grand Marshal Richard Miles, founder of Miles of Freedom, will lead the expanded, more accessible route ending in Fair Park
> – Why it matters: The parade’s theme, “Walk Together in Unity with Purpose,” invites the community to honor Dr. King’s legacy while pushing Dallas forward in compassion, justice, and shared progress
Dallas is gearing up for its signature tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. next January. Organizers promise a bigger route, richer performances, and a renewed call for unity.
Parade Day Schedule
A kickoff ceremony begins at 9:00 a.m. at the MLK Center. Spectators should arrive early; the procession departs at 10:30 a.m. sharp and follows an extended path designed for better viewing and accessibility before finishing inside Fair Park.
Who’s Marching
Expect a vibrant mix of:
- Creative floats
- Cultural organizations
- First responders
- Dance teams
- Civic partners
- Youth groups
All told, more than 200 groups will fill the streets with music, color, and messages of hope.
Behind the Event
**H.E.L.P. (Hope Encourage Love Protect), the parade’s host and producer, partners year-round with the City of Dallas Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center to fund programs and events that improve quality of life for residents in need.
For route maps, participation forms, and volunteer sign-ups, visit the official parade website.
Key Takeaways
- Date & Time: January 19, 2026-kickoff at 9 a.m., parade at 10:30 a.m.
- Theme: Walk Together in Unity with Purpose
- Grand Marshal: Richard Miles of Miles of Freedom
- Attendance: 25,000-70,000 expected along the expanded Fair Park route
Mark your calendar and lace up-Dallas is walking together to keep Dr. King’s dream in step with the city’s future.
