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The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade is returning to downtown Pensacola during Juneteenth after the original January showcase was cancelled due to unsafe weather conditions when the Pensacola area was hit with a historic snow storm.

The theme this year is “One Team – One Dream”.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade.

Who is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is widely regarded as America’s pre-eminent advocate of nonviolence and one of the greatest nonviolent leaders in world history.

According to The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, during the less than 13 years of his leadership of the modern American Civil Rights Movement, from December 1955 until his assassination on April 4, 1968, African Americans achieved more genuine progress toward racial equality in America than the previous 350 years had produced.

What can I expect during Pensacola’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade?

Pensacola’s MLK Parade began in 1987 with just over a dozen individuals coming together to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Now, more than 35 years later, the parade is a Mardi Gras-style event, featuring floats from local businesses, churches, organizations, school bands, and elected officials.

Each float is decorated according to the year’s theme, showcasing the community’s creativity and unity. This celebration not only honors Dr. King’s profound impact, but also fosters diversity and highlights the cultural and economic contributions of Pensacola’s residents.

When and where is the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade?

The 2025 parade will take place beginning at 10 a.m. June 19 in downtown Pensacola.

Who is the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade?

Linda “Sonshine” Moorer has been named the Grand Marshal of the 2025 MLK Day Parade. With a 38-year career in radio and the entertainment industry, Sonshine has become a beloved and influential voice on the Gulf Coast.

As the host of the highly acclaimed talk show Sonshine’s Corner on BLAB-TV, she has dedicated her platform to inspiring, educating, and fostering positive change within the community. Her warmth, passion, and commitment embody the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

What is the mission of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade?

The mission is to keep Dr. King’s message alive by uniting the community in a shared celebration of love, peace, and justice. Through this annual event, organizers aim to inspire future generations, promote civic engagement, and highlight the power of diversity in creating positive change.

What other Juneteenth events are planning in Pensacola?

  • Watson Family Foundation’s 4th annual Juneteenth: A Family Reunion for the Culture Festival, noon to 6 p.m., June 14 at Museum Plaza, 300 S. Tarragona St. The free event will feature live entertainment and presentations, a sweet potato pie contest, domino and spades tournaments, line dancing, dramatic presentations, a scholarship presentation, food, vendors and much more. Details: www.watsonfamilyfoundation.com.
  • Juneteenth Celebration at the University of West Florida, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 16 at the UWF Commons Auditorium. The free event will feature speakers, history presentations, live musical performances and more.
  • Bruce Beach Kayak Tour: Journey to Juneteenth, 9:30 a.m. to noon, June 18, 601 W. Main St. Hosted by the UWF Archaeology Institute and the Florida Public Archaeology Network, those with their own kayaks are invited to join on a free tour of Bruce Beach near the historic Tanyard neighborhood, long a home for Black and Creole folks, as well as immigrants and others. Though there is no cost, tickets are required and can be acquired at www.eventbrite.com/e/kayak-tour-bruce-beach-tickets-1393000986449.
  • UnityFest 2025 − A Community Celebration of Freedom, noon to 4 p.m., June 19, Adoration for a New Beginning Church, 920 W. Government St. A celebration of African American culture for all, featuring live music, a kids zone, free food and more. Details can be found on the Unity Fest 2025 Facebook events page.
  • Gallery Night – Juneteenth: The Art of Freedom, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. June 20, Palafox Place. More than 70 art vendors will line the street during the festive monthly street celebration, along with music, food and more with a focus on Juneteenth and African American culture. Details: www.gallerynightpensacola.org.