St. Pete Standard

St. Petersburg is gearing up for its annual MLK Dream Big Weekend, taking place from January 17 to 20, 2025. The event aims to celebrate the life and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., marking the 38th year of this tradition.

The celebration will feature several events, including the MLK Band Showcase at Gibbs High School and an interfaith service at The Cathedral Church of St. Peter, both on January 19. The highlight of the weekend will be the MLK Dream Big Parade on January 20, where St. Pete Fire Rescue Chief Keith Watts will lead as Grand Marshal alongside FAMU's "Marching 100" band.

For those attending, accessibility measures have been put in place along the parade route with designated viewing areas for people with disabilities.

A Racial Day of Healing is scheduled for January 21 at Stetson Law Great Hall in Gulfport.

Attendees are encouraged to plan their arrival early due to traffic considerations and explore various parking options downtown. Free parking is available at Tropicana Field on January 20, though access restrictions apply once bicycle racks are installed that morning.

Alternative transportation methods such as ride-sharing services or bike shares are recommended. SunRunner and PSTA buses offer another option but expect rerouting during parade hours.

Certain roads will close temporarily for parade setup starting on January 20, affecting Central Avenue and other nearby streets until after the parade concludes.

City facilities in St. Petersburg will observe holiday closures on January 20 in honor of Dr. King's legacy, impacting trash and recycling schedules slightly by shifting collections one day later than usual through midweek.

For more details about events and logistical arrangements over the weekend, visit www.stpete.org/dreambig or mlkdreambig.com.