San Antonio to Host Nation’s Largest MLK March on January 19 with Events Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy
San Antonio is once again preparing to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the 39th Annual MLK Day March and Celebration, taking place Monday, January 19, 2026. Known as the largest MLK march in the nation, the city-wide event draws tens of thousands of participants each year, turning the streets of San Antonio into a powerful demonstration of unity, remembrance, and action.
This year’s theme, “Diversity Unites Us: Love Leads Us & Action Propels Us,” captures the spirit of the weekend’s events, which span from Friday, January 16 through Monday, January 19. From worship services and youth empowerment to community celebrations and inspirational speakers, the four-day series of events will reflect on Dr. King’s message and call to service.
March Details and Route Information
The MLK Day March kicks off at 10:00 a.m. at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy (3501 Martin Luther King Dr, San Antonio, TX 78203). Lineup begins as early as 7:30 a.m., and participants are encouraged to arrive early. The march concludes at Pittman-Sullivan Park (1101 Iowa St), where the celebration will continue with music, food, and family-friendly activities.
To support the safety and solemnity of the event, motorcycles, cars, and other motorized vehicles will not be permitted in the procession. VIA Metropolitan Transit will offer free bus service to and from the event, helping keep “SA Moving the Dream in Motion.”
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Celebration at Pittman-Sullivan Park
Once the march concludes, the celebration at Pittman-Sullivan Park begins in full swing. Highlights of the day include:
- Morning Program Performer: Melvin Crispell III – 9:00 a.m.
- Keynote Speaker: Olympic Gold Medalist Gabby Douglas – Noon
- Featured Musical Guest: Coco Jones – 1:30 p.m.
Attendees can also enjoy a multicultural performance stage, youth activities, food and merchandise vendors, health and wellness booths, and information from local nonprofits and organizations.
Events Leading Up to the March
The MLK Commission and partners will host several related community events:
Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
- New Baptist Ministers' Union MLK Worship Service – 7:00 PM at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church
Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026
- Freedom Bike Rider Fundraiser – 8:00 AM at MLK Park
- MLK Youth Empowerment Summit – 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Boys & Girls Clubs Eastside Clubhouse
Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026
- Wreath-Laying Ceremony – 2:00 PM at MLK Plaza
- 38th Annual Interfaith Worship Service – 4:30 PM at Friendship Baptist Church
Day-of Highlights on Monday, January 19
In addition to the march and park celebration, MLK Day will include:
- Veterans Coffee Social & Viewing Station – 7:30 AM at American Legion Fred Brock Post #828
- MLK Pre-March Worship Program – 9:00 AM at MLK Academy (donations for San Antonio Food Bank encouraged)
- Morning Praise Program & Noon Commemorative Program at Pittman-Sullivan Park
- Afternoon Celebration Performances – 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM at Pittman-Sullivan Park
(Source: City of San Antonio)Continuing the Legacy
Wrapping up the week, Trinity University will host its MLK Commemorative Lecture on Thursday, January 22 at 7:00 PM at Parker Chapel. Parking and shuttle service will be available from nearby lots.
The City of San Antonio, in partnership with District 2 Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez and the San Antonio Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, chaired by Dr. Doshie Piper, welcomes residents, families, and community leaders to come together in reflection and action.
This annual celebration is more than just a march—it’s a movement of hope, unity, and service. Whether you’re marching, volunteering, or simply attending a program, this weekend offers countless ways to honor Dr. King’s enduring vision for a better, more just world.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.