Keepers of the Dream, Unity in action
dr. MLK LEGACY Honors Gala
Hosted in the beautiful city of Fort Myers, Florida
The MLK Ecumenical service was established in the late 1980s after a conversation. The need to create this event to bring churches together across denominations materialized. Every year the MLK Ecumenical Service is hosted at a local church bringing together Protestants, Catholics, Jews and Muslims.
Under the Guidance of Reginald Billups and many others, the Dunbar Festival Committee, Inc. went back and forth on whether to put on a March or Parade. The Parade concept was popular across the country as a staple MLK event however the commemorative March concept seemed to be the best option. The march is an opportunity to relive the history of yesterday, see the struggles of today in order to look forward to a better tomorrow.
The Commemorative March will began at the corner of High and Blount Street in front of the Dunbar Community School. Those looking to March need to bring strong voices for singing and chanting as the march makes its way down Dr. King Blvd into Centennial Park. There will be a sign-up on location for any groups that will be participating. The largest group to participate will be honored with a traveling trophy. Marchers may arrive as early as 10:00 a.m. for drinks and healthy snacks provided by the SWFL Haitian Coalition.
A Partnership with the Alliance for the Arts will bring to a new Production to the Celebration. Jan. 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Dunbar Community School, Dunbar Festival along with the Alliance for the Arts, Inc. Presents from Podiums to Pulpits: Activists for Change Production. This event takes our area theater talent to bring to life the Civil Rights Movement and the work of Dr. King.
2026 Event Sonosrs
All proceeds to benefit city unification efforts and community endeavors via the Dunbar festival Committee Inc.
The Dunbar Festival Committee, Inc. is excited to invite the entire family to join us in celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during Legacy Weekend in along the historic riverfront for sunny Fort Myers Florida.
MLK Legacy Honors Gala
2026 PRESIDENTIAl Nominees & Hall of fame inductees
- Community Engagement
- Ecumenical Service
- Arts & Theatre
- Commemorative March
- Celebration at Centennial Park
- Honors Gala
Stepping, Dancing, Singing, BBQ, Seafood, Social Services and Local Businesses vendors are just some of the things you will see as you enter Centennial Park on MLK Day. The Park Celebration is an opportunity for families, organizations and nonprofits, to gather and enjoy a great time. The Alliance for the Arts, Junior League of Fort Myers, Lee County Black History or just some of the supporters that will be doing activities at the Park. Certain vendors are a mainstay and we look forward to having them. Those such as Friendship COGIC, Fort Myers NOW, Southern SnoBalls, New Life Academy and a few others. We look forward to those returning from last year and many new ones this year.
Get in touch
We would love to speak with you.
Feel free to reach out using the below details.
Connect
- 239-440-5669
- [email protected]
Address
-
P.O. Box 50135
Fort Myers, Fl 33994
Hours
- By Appointment M-F