MLK Breakfast/Parade is Jan. 17 and Jan. 19

All are invited to participate in the upcoming Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Breakfast the morning of Sat., January 17, 2026, at the Joan Bean Auditorium at Atlantic Recreation Center 2500 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, Florida at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $25 per person or $200 for a table of six (includes reservation fee). Table sponsors will be recognized for their generosity in supporting the MLK legacy. For more information, contact Patricia Thompson, 904-524-1654. The Commemorative Breakfast will lead to religious and civic services around the community. Please contact your place of worship for details.

The crowning event of the weekend for all will be the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade of Fernandina Beach, held annually in this community since Jan. 15, 1978, in honor of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year the Elm Street Sportsman’s Association will host our parade under the theme Mission Possible.  We are making a community appeal for everyone to participate. Cars, floats, boats, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and walkers – all are welcome. Vehicles must have signage. Everyone is encouraged to remember and honor the life of the slain civil rights leader whose dream was for all of us to build a better world together.

Parade Date: Monday, Jan. 19, 2026

Time: Noon – Line up at 11 a.m.

Location: Peck Center – Line begins at corner of Elm/MLK  and S. 11^th

Parade route: 11th  to Ash to Second to Centre to 11th  to Elm. We will culminate at the MLK Centre on 1200 Elm/MLK  Street, where the people will be greeted by local civic leaders and an inspiring speech. Free refreshments will be provided inside the auditorium.  For more information, contact a Parade Committee member.

Sincerely,

The 2026 Annual MLK Parade Committee:

Mr. Wayne Peterson, President, Elm Street Sportsman Association, 904-753-1663

Coordinator: Former Vice Mayor Patricia A. Thompson 904-524-1654

Dr. James Arthur 904-206-1851

Dr. Alexandra Lajoux 904-310-3784 or 202-255-7562 (cell)

Pastor Bernard Thompson 904-557-4540

2026 Parade Marshal:

Maggie Wingard

2026 Parade Grand Marshal:                                                                                 

Pastor Jeanette Richo