City Postpones its 34th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Celebration to 2023

Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach has postponed its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Celebration to 2023. The decision to further postpone the event, originally scheduled for Jan. 15, 2022, was made out of an abundance of caution to protect public health as the transmission of COVID-19 cases remains high. The City continues to take a steadfast approach towards mitigating the spread of the virus, and while it is an unfortunate circumstance to postpone this year’s parade, the event will make its grand return next year with enhanced features.

“Our city continues to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King in the everyday work we do as a community,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “While there won’t be a parade celebration this year as we continue to make decisions that keep people safe, I’m looking forward to a great celebration next year and for many years to come.”

The Long Beach City Council will have the opportunity to vote on whether funding from this year’s parade, sponsored by the City, and community celebration, co-hosted by the City and the Sixth Council District, will be made available for next year’s celebration. If approved by Council, the extra funding will allow for additional event features and amenities such as decorations, stages, paid entertainment and promotional materials.

“Not only does this event celebrate the profound life and legacy of Dr. King, but it is also near and dear to many members of our community,” said Sixth District Councilwoman Suely Saro. “Despite the unfortunate circumstances leading to this postponement, we look forward to this event returning next year with new enhancements that will enrich this great celebration.”

Shortly after the City originally announced the event’s postponement on Jan. 5, the City, in partnership with the Sixth Council District, presented the Martin Luther King Jr. Virtual Day of Celebration and Service, a previous recording of the 2021 celebration that aired on Long Beach Television, to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

Event updates will be made available on the City of Long Beach’s event calendar or by contacting the Sixth District Council Office at 562.570.6816 or district6@longbeach.gov.