3 Top SWFL MLK Day Parades And Rallies
It’s a three day weekend for many Southwest Floridians in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Since Monday is a federal holiday, many of the celebrations in Fort Myers, Naples and Punta Gorda are taking place then. Here are 3 top SWFL MLK Day Parades and Rallies to put on your radar.
The birthday of the famous civil rights leader is actually January 15th. In 1983, about 20 years after King’s legendary “I Have a Dream” speech, congress passed legislation proclaiming Martin Luther King Jr. Day should be observed on the third Monday in January.
One of the most popular ways to mark the occasion is with parades and marches that typically end in rallies of unity. Although these parades occur every year, there are different themes. The parade theme for 2025 is Change Continues With Us.
Here are the top SWFL MLK Day Parades And Rallies
MLK Day Parade Naples
Monday at 11am, the parade steps off at the corner of Broad Ave S and Third St. It winds through downtown and ends at Cambier Park. The park is home to a celebration that includes, food, vendors, children’s activities and entertainment. 12 to 4pm, free. More info here.
MLK Day Legacy Fest Fort Myers
This celebration takes place all weekend but culminates in the annual Dr. King Commemorative March on Monday. Gather at the Dunbar Library and walk through downtown to the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater. A rally is planned with entertainment food and more. Free. More info here.
MLK Day Parade Punta Gorda
This parade is Monday at 11am beginning at the Charlotte Harbor Event Center. It winds south on Taylor St. to Charlotte Ave, then on to Mary St. before ending at the New Operation Cooper Street Recreation Center for a rally program. Free. More info here.
Enjoy these SWFL MLK Day parades and rallies Monday.
