Update: Baltimore’s MLK JR Day Parade canceled due to inclement weather

Update: Baltimore’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr (MLK) Day Parade has been canceled due to inclement weather.

“We are truly disappointed to cancel this much beloved event. However, we agree with the mayor’s office that public safety must be our top priority in this moment and the inclement weather and frigid temperatures have dictated this very necessary decision. We send our thanks and apologies to the many dedicated community bands, nonprofits, civic organizations, sponsors, city officials, ar sts, and volunteers that were prepared to come together on Monday to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King,” said interim CEO Robyn Murphy.

Baltimore Office of Promotions & The Arts (BOPA) said there are no plans to reschedule the Martin Luther King Jr parade at this time.

Original story

The Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts (BOPA) has announced the step-off time for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr (MLK) Day Parade on Monday, January 20, 2025.

Baltimore MLK Jr Day Parade

The parade will begin at noon at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and N. Eutaw Street and disband at Baltimore Street.

Grand Marshal

Embodying the theme Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers – the Grand Marshal leading this year’s parade is Baltimore City Solicitor Ebony M. Thompson.

Nearly a year ago, the Baltimore City Council made history when they unanimously confirmed Thompson as the first woman and openly gay person to serve in this role.

A proud graduate of Baltimore City College and University of Baltimore School of Law, Thompson has received numerous awards in her time as a dedicated public servant, including being named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers in 2022, acknowledged as Ones to Watch by The Best Lawyers in America in 2021, and selected as a Leadership Academy Fellow of the Maryland State Bar Association.

In her role as Solicitor, Thompson represents and advises the Mayor, City Council, City Administrator, boards and commissions, department directors, and employees in their official capacities in all legal matters before the City.

How to participate in the Baltimore MLK Jr Day parade

Groups and organizations interested in marching as part of the parade can submit an application here.

Community and civil rights organizations, music and dance performance groups, fraternities and sororities, and more are invited to apply.

The deadline is Monday, January 13, 2025.

Groups and organizations that are selected to be in this year’s parade will be notified of their acceptance by email.