ELIZABETHTOWN — The 28th annual parade honoring the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held in downtown Elizabethtown on Monday, Jan. 18, beginning at 11 a.m.
Martin Luther King Day celebrates the life and accomplishment of Martin Luther King Jr., who promoted civil rights through nonviolent civil disobedience. He is perhaps best known for his “I have a dream …” speech in 1963. He was assassinated in 1968.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federally recognized holiday in 1983,” said Arthur Bullock, chairman of the parade. “The first year this holiday was observed was 1986, but not by all states. In 2000 it became a nationally observed holiday in all 50 states. Martin Luther King Jr. Day takes place on the third Monday of January each year.”
Everyone but not limited to civic and religious organizations, bands, step-teams, antique vehicles and farm equipment, queens, etc. are invited to participate. The public can send requests to particpate in the parade to abullock001@ec.rr.com. There is no fee involved. Individuals, groups or organizations that want a float should call 910-645-4995 for float information.
The line-up starts 9 a.m. at 805 W. Broad St. in Elizabethtown.