Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace & Unity Parade Scheduled for Jan. 17

From the city of Long Beach:

The Sixth District Councilman Dee Andrews, the Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation & Marine, and the residents of Long Beach are pleased to announce the 27th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace & Unity Parade and Celebration, on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015.

The parade kicks off at 10:30 a.m. at the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and Anaheim Street. The celebration follows from noon to 5 p.m., at Martin Luther King Jr. Park, located at 1950 Lemon Ave., Long Beach.

Join the city of Long Beach as it celebrates the revolutionary spirit of one of America’s most prominent advocates for racial justice and equality. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration commemorates the courage, humility, and ultimate sacrifice of the historical civil rights activist. The parade honors Dr. King’s life and dedication to service by showcasing schools, organizations and community groups that strive to keep his timeless values alive. “This parade and celebration is the highlight of our city. For years it has renewed our communities with its visions of peace and brotherhood,” said Councilman Andrews.

Following the parade is the Celebration, located at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, 1950 Lemon Avenue. Thousands of people will gather to honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a free celebratory afternoon of music featuring the powerful work of artists whose vision coincides with King’s voice for justice, peace and civil rights. The celebration also featuresDreamland, an entire area dedicated to our youth to uphold the legacy of Dr. King. The youth area has all sorts of activities for kids that include free carnival rides, arts & crafts booth, and their own entertainment stage.

Currently, applications are being accepted for sponsorship, parade participants, vendors, performers, and volunteers. Community groups and organizations are encouraged to participate. Parade application fee is $85.00 and vendor fees range from $150 to $350. For more information call (562) 570-6816.

PHOTO Patch file photo.