1-12-2025 12:01pm

Where to Celebrate and Honor Martin Luther King Jr. this Year in Middle Georgia

Nate Weeks Editor

Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife Coretta Scott King were married for around fifteen years at the time he was assassinated (Photograph courtesy of Wikimedia)

Several locations in Central Georgia are hosting events starting on Wednesday and going through Sunday to honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s enduring legacy, which began decades ago with his pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Born in Atlanta as the son of a Baptist minister, Dr. King became a prominent leader in the fight against racial discrimination, serving as the head of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). His most iconic moment came during the March on Washington, where he delivered the renowned "I Have a Dream" speech, a cornerstone of civil rights rhetoric.

Check out these upcoming events taking place across Middle Georgia celebrating Dr. King’s life and work. Updates will be provided as new events are announced.

Wednesday, January 15th

Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Macon City Hall

Location: City Hall, Commission Chambers
Time: 9 a.m.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Board will honor Dr. King’s legacy with a wreath-laying ceremony. Speakers include Elaine Lucas and Pastor Lisa Watson. This event is free and open to the public.

Mercer University MLK Celebration

Location: Willet Auditorium, Mercer University
Time: 5:30 –7:30 p.m.

Mercer University’s MLK event includes an art gallery presentation and a free t-shirt for registered participants. Sign up for the Mercer University MLK Celebration at this link..

Friday, January 17th

GCSU 9th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast

Location: Magnolia Ballroom, Georgia College & State University
Time: 7:30 –9:30 a.m.

This year’s theme, "Echoes of MLK: Activism, Disobedience, and Rights in the 21st Century," will be the focus of the breakfast, featuring essays from local student winners. Breakfast cost $20, and tickets can at this link.

Saturday, January 18th

MLK Day of Service in Macon

Location: 1410 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
Time: 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

The Human Rights Campaign and Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful are organizing a service day in front of the MLK mural. Volunteers are encouraged to participate. Register here.

29th Annual Dublin-Laurens Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

Location: Downtown Dublin
Time: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Downtown Dublin will host a parade featuring floats, vendors, and community participants. Those interested in creating a float can find more information at this link.

Sunday, January 19th

EastSideOutLoud Unity Day Parade

Location: Maynard Street, Macon
Time: 2 –6 p.m. (Pep rally at 3:30 p.m.)

The Unity Day Parade will begin at Burdell Hunt Elementary School and end at Rosa Jackson Recreation Center. Attendees can enjoy live music, local vendors, community activities, and recognition of local achievements.