MLK Day in Sacramento: Check out these 6 events across the capital region
Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and communities across the Sacramento area honoring the life and legacy of the civil rights leader.
California began observing King’s birthday as a state holiday in 1981, two years before the third Monday in January became a federally observed holiday.
In 2025, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Monday, Jan. 20.
Events happening in the Sacramento area include marches, rallies and other community gatherings.
Here are a few of the local events in store:
Saturday, Jan. 18
The National Action Network Sacramento Chapter is hosting its annual MLK Community Breakfast to inspire change and build a brighter future for the next generation.
The theme of this year’s event is “Forward Together, Shaping Tomorrow.” Registration is available on Eventbrite.
When: 8 to 11 a.m.
Where: The Center at District56, 8230 Civic Center Drive, Elk Grove
How much: $20, $10 youth under age 18
Sunday, Jan. 19
Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
Trinity Life Center is hosting a special church service in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.
Bishop Parnell Lovelace, Jr. will be the designated keynote speaker.
In addition, a choir of more than 100 people led by Tecoy and Ellington Porter is scheduled to perform.
Awards will be presented to those who have excelled in the following categories: service and advocacy; programs for children; innovation for change; historical and cultural preservation; unity of the church; and mentoring and coaching.
A $5,000 scholarship will be awarded to a graduating high school senior who has been admitted to a four-year college or university.
When: 5:30 p.m.
Where: Trinity Life Center, 5225 Hillsdale Blvd., Sacramento
How much: Free
Keepin’ the Dream Alive in 2025 Rally
The family of Stephon Clark, who was fatally shot by Sacramento Police Department officers in 2018, will host a rally as a prelude to the South Sacramento MLK Jr. Parade & Caravan.
The rally will feature live music, guest speakers and food, as well as awards for community members.
When: 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Stephon’s House, 5940 Rosebud Lane, Sacramento
How much: Free
Monday, Jan. 20
Organized by MLK 365, the 43rd annual March for the Dream will bring together people across the Sacramento region in celebration of the civil freedoms that King championed.
“The march for the dream is your opportunity to invite someone from a different race, religion or cultural background to walk and talk with you at the march,” MLK 365 said on its website. “They are the conversations that ... focus on strategies to make America and the world a more equitable and just place to live.”
More than 2,500 people gathered in 2024 to join the walk that begins at Sacramento City College.
When: Arrive by 8 a.m. Program begins at 8:30 a.m., march departs at 9:15 a.m.
Where: Sacramento City College, 3835 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento
How much: Free
South Sacramento Martin Luther King Jr. Day Caravan
The Bless Child Association will host its fifth annual south Sacramento MLK Day Caravan, inviting participants to parade through the south side of Sacramento in honor of King.
This event will include refreshments, guest speakers and a live DJ. There will also be a car and motorcycle contest with prizes.
Wheb: Arrive by 8 a.m. Caravan departs at 9:45 a.m.
Where: Luther Burbank High School, 3500 Florin Road, Sacramento
How much: Free
Saturday, Jan. 25
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
The 26th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration in Sacramento honors the legacy and vision of King’s commitment to helping change the world for all people, its website said.
Author and civil rights family member Lisa McNair is a keynote speaker, and James Wheatley of Celebration Arts will receive the Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award.
Formal or business casual attire is requested. Tickets must be purchased in advance at mlkcelebrationsacramento.org.
Time: Registration at 5 p.m., program begins at 6 p.m.
Location: University Ballroom, Sacramento State University, 6000 Jed Smith Drive, Sacramento
Tickets: $100, $1,000 table of 8