Each January, communities across Arizona come together to honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. Through festivals, celebrations, and thought-provoking lectures, residents reflect on his powerful messages of justice, equality, and unity. Here’s a guide to five MLK events in Arizona.
2025 MLK March & Festival
The Arizona MLK Celebration Committee hosts two impactful events in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., including the annual MLK March & Festival in Downtown Phoenix. This inspiring day brings together diverse communities with live entertainment, food vendors, and educational activities to commemorate Dr. King’s legacy. The march will take place at East Lake Park on Jan. 20, at 9 a.m., followed by the Festival at Margaret T. Hance Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entry is free. For more information, visit azmlk.org/events.
MLK Jr. Community Celebration
Peoria
Inspired by Dr. King’s dream of a “beloved community,” the city of Peoria is hosting a celebration to honor him on Saturday, Jan. 18, from 3 to 6 p.m. This commemorative evening will feature a lineup of engaging activities, including live performances from African drummers and other local artists, community service opportunities, and a chance to learn more about Dr. King’s vision for equality. The celebration also features live music, art, and guest speakers who will highlight the importance of Dr. King’s work and its lasting impact on modern society. Additionally, there will be food trucks onsite serving complimentary small bites for attendees to enjoy and full-plate options for purchase. Entry is free. For more information, visit www.peoriaaz.gov.

Chandler Multicultural Festival
Chandler
The Chandler Multicultural Festival takes center stage to celebrate MLK Day and the city’s cultural diversity on Saturday, Jan. 18, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park. This vibrant event showcases live performances across two stages, a custom cruiser car show where you can vote for the People’s Choice Award, an international shopping market, over 50 local nonprofits, kids activities, STEM projects, and cuisine representing cultures from around the world. Entry is free. For more information, visit www.chandleraz.gov.
MLK Day of Celebration and Service
Surprise
The city of Surprise invites the community to come together for its MLK Day of Celebration and Service at Willow Canyon High School. The event kicks off on Saturday, Jan. 18, at 8 a.m. with a moving program that includes guest speakers, musical performances, impactful work by nonprofits, and reflections on Dr. King’s life, centered around this year’s theme: “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” Following the ceremony, attendees can participate in service projects to give back to the community, echoing Dr. King’s message of selflessness and action. (Note: The first 500 guests will receive free breakfast.) Volunteering and attending are free. For more information, visit surpriseaz.gov.

ASU’s Annual MLK Lecture
Tempe
Arizona State University continues its tradition of honoring Dr. King through its Annual MLK Lecture at Old Main. This year’s speaker, Dr. Andre Archie, will explore “Virtue, Color-Blindness, and the American Project.” The lecture allows students, faculty, and community members to reflect on Dr. King’s vision and discuss how it applies to contemporary conversations on race, justice, and virtue. This event will take place on Thursday, Jan. 16, from 5 to 7 p.m., and attending is free. For more information, visit asuevents.asu.edu.