Things to do for the holiday weekend in Orlando
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, and the national holiday brings a time to remember the legacy of America’s famous civil rights leader and give back to the community.
More than 58 years have passed since Dr. King delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech in Washington, D.C., and more than 53 years since the activist was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. Still, the work he started remains more vital than ever.
Around Central Florida, performing groups, community leaders and volunteers will bring the public together for concerts, prayer, discussions and more. Here are a few offerings.
Sanford’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
Beginning at 3 p.m. today, the Rev. Sammie J. Edward Sr. will host an interfaith service at Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church. The community can join in a parade beginning at 10 a.m. Monday on historic Goldsboro Boulevard. A festival at Fort Mellon Park will follow. More information: mlksanford.org
The 2022 Arthur “Pappy” Kennedy Prayer Breakfast will commemorate the legacies of King and Orlando’s first African-American city council member. Dr. Vikki Johnson, Kennedy’s granddaughter, will be the keynote speaker. This annual tradition has been hosted for nearly three decades and will continue virtually amid the ongoing pandemic beginning at 8 a.m. Monday. More information: orlando. gov
Heart of Florida United
Way’s Week of Action will help connect community members with volunteer opportunities. The local organization will host a number of ways to give back to the community in the week following Martin Luther King Jr. Day. More information: hfuw.org
Orlando’s Dr. Martin Luther King Great Day of Service involves cleaning up Lake Fran and trails in the Carver Shores neighborhood from 9-11:30 a.m. Monday. Snacks, water and supplies will be provided at 4724 Raleigh St. in Orlando. More information: volunteer.orlando.gov
Seedlings for Civil Rights will bring together volunteers to beautify Eagle Nest Park. Snacks, water and all supplies will be provided. Limited spots are available for the event beginning at 9 a.m. Monday at 5165 Metrowest
Blvd. in Orlando; RSVP to Jody Buyas at jody.buyas@ orlando.gov or call 407-2463504. More information: orlando.gov/Events/Seedlings-for-Civil-Rights-2022
Ecology in Action Day is an educational event geared toward children ages 3-5, but other ages are welcome to join for hands-on crafts and games inspired by nature. This ongoing event takes place at Lake Lorna Doone Park every Monday. Bring walking shoes, a reusable water bottle and a hat for the event at 10 a.m. Monday at 1519 W. Church St. in Orlando. More information: orlando.gov
The Oviedo Citizens in Action Parade brings businesses, schools, churches and civic groups together for a route from Oviedo High School to Round Lake Park beginning at 10 a.m. Monday. A community festival at
Round Lake Park (891 E. Broadway St. in Oviedo) will follow after the parade with entertainment, food, vendors and children’s activities until 4 p.m. More information: ocianow.org
The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Vigil takes place virtually this year, hosted by Frederick Joseph, author of “The Black Friend.” The event celebrates the life and impact of King with the theme, “Where Do We Go From Here,” beginning at 6 p.m. Monday. More information: rollins.edu
The I Have a Dream Workshop at Fairview Shores Branch Library will help visitors celebrate the life of King by making crafts inspired by dreams, peace and togetherness. The free event is recommended for elementary schoolers and registration is required. Explore the activities beginning at 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday at 902 Lee Road in Orlando. More information: attend.ocls.info
Orlando’s 2022 MLK Concert presents a gospel and spiritual “spectacular” in the newly opened Steinmetz Hall at Dr. Phillips Center. The concert is produced and directed by Grammy Award winner Dr. Jeffery Redding, with Dr. Kelly Miller and Dr. Terrance Lane. The event is free and seated on a firstcome, first-served basis. Enjoy performances from a variety of Orlando choral groups beginning at 6 p.m.
Feb. 27. More information: drphillipscenter.org