Indian River County is preparing to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this January with a weekend dedicated to community, education, and remembrance. The MLK Birthday Committee of Indian River County has announced a schedule of events for 2026 designed to bring residents together through celebration and service, headlined by the Annual Scholarship Banquet and the beloved MLK Day Parade in Gifford.
Annual Scholarship Banquet: A Night of Inspiration
The festivities begin on **Saturday, January 17, 2026**, with the Annual Scholarship Banquet. This cornerstone event serves a dual purpose: celebrating the academic achievements of local graduates and raising vital funds to support future scholarship programs. Attendees can expect an evening characterized by inspiring stories, fine dining, and community fellowship.
The keynote speaker for the evening will be **Reverend Desmond Cook**, the Chaplain of the Miami Dolphins.
Event Details:
Organizers note that tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Those interested in attending should contact the MLK Birthday Committee immediately with their name, contact information, ticket quantity, and payment method.
The 2026 Annual Dr. MLK Jr. Parade
On **Monday, January 19, 2026**, the community will take to the streets for the annual parade. This year’s procession features the theme:
“Remembering the Past While Embracing The Future”
The parade serves as a march for equality, justice, and peace, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the Vero Beach and Gifford communities. The 2026 Parade Grand Marshal is **Mrs. Jonnie Mae Perry**.
Parade Logistics and Route:
The parade will start promptly at **10:00 AM**. For participants involved in the procession, specific lineup locations have been established to ensure safety and organization:
Safety and Regulations
Spectators and participants are advised of strict safety guidelines for the event. Walkers will not be permitted to walk alongside floats to prevent accidents. Furthermore, the throwing of candy or objects from floats into the audience or street is prohibited. Dancing groups permitted to perform will be positioned at the end of the lineup.
Community Support
These events are made possible through the support of local sponsors, including Dyer Chevrolet Vero Beach, the Gifford Youth Achievement Center, Milton Mayberry Enterprises, and Communications International.
Residents looking to participate, donate, or purchase banquet tickets are encouraged to visit the MLK Birthday Committee of Indian River County website for more information.
