THURSDAY, 1/15

Wiley University Institutional Saga in Motion Exhibit

Where: Thomas W. Cole, Sr. Library (during operating hours), Marshall

The East Texas Weekend Preview — Explore a special exhibit highlighting pivotal moments of the Civil Rights Movement and the enduring power of collective action. *Lasts until Jan. 30th.

The Grove at Margrill Plaza Dedication Service

When: 6pm
Where: Magrill Park & Plaza, Longview

Tree dedication ceremony to commemorate “The Grove”. The location where freed slaves would have worship service under trees. Union Pacific helped to underwrite funds to install this artwork.

FRIDAY, 1/16

Opening Reception & Jazz Concert

When: 6pm
Where: Longview Community Center

Reception at 6 p.m. Concert at 7 p.m. Featured Artist: Brass-a-Holics. Free to attend

The Annual MLK Spokenword Showcase

When: 7pm-9pm
Where: The Foundry Coffee House, Tyler

Calling All East Texas Poets and Poetry Lovers. Join Us in this safe space as we commemorate the legacy of Dr Martin Luther King Jr with Poetry & Spokenword.

SATURDAY, 1/17

MLK Celebration Parade

When: 10am
Where: Broughton Recreation Center, Longview

Parade Route will be along Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Starts at Pittman Street and concludes at Broughton Recreation Center. Free to attend.

Community Festival

When: 10am-3pm
Where: Broughton Recreation Center, Longview

Vendors, Food, and Children’s Activities! Free to attend.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration

When: 1pm-3pm
Where: 309 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Tyler

Join us for a vibrant celebration honoring Martin Luther King Jr. with music, art, and community vibes!

Called to Lead: Selma Viewing and Alumni Voices

When: 6pm
Where: Julius S. Scott, Sr. Chapel, Marshall

Join us for a screening of Selma followed by alumni reflections and discussion on leadership, courage, and continuing the work.

SUNDAY, 1/18

Musical Celebration

When: 6pm-8pm
Where: Parkview Baptist Church, Longview

Join us for a wonderful musical celebration at Parkview Baptist Church!

MONDAY, 1/19

MLK Day Gospel Brunch

When: 10am
Where: P.O. Box 48, Gladewater, TX

Celebrate MLK Day with uplifting gospel tunes and delicious brunch in a lively, soulful vibe!

KMWA Dr. MLK 10th Anniversary Celebration

When: 10am-12pm
Where: PO Box 2994, Kilgore, TX, United States, 75663

Come help us celebrate our 10th Anniversary honoring our deserving citizens. You will be glad you came💯💕

March

When: 11:30am
Where: Broughton Recreation Center, Longview

March begins Broughton Recreation Center, 801 S. MLK Jr. Blvd. March concludes at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 306 S. MLK Jr. Blvd. Free. No registration required.

Wiley University Teach-In

When: 1pm
Where: Fred T. Long, Sr. Ballroom, Marshall

A campus teach-in designed to connect Dr. King’s legacy to today’s challenges and opportunities—equipping participants to continue the work with intention.

MLK 2026 Program

When: 1pm-3pm
Where: TISD-Parks Elementary, Texarkana

Theme: Mission Possible 2: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way! Contact Melva Flowers @ mjones832@aol.com or naacp.texarkana@gmail.com by Dec 22, 2025 to identify an individual/group to be considered for the MLK 2026 Program. Refreshments Will Be Served!

TUESDAY, 1/20

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Chapel Program

When: 11am
Where: Julius S. Scott, Sr. Chapel, Marshall

A chapel program focused on moral leadership and the urgency of action—rooted in Dr. King’s call to justice and beloved community.

WEDNESDAY, 1/21

Documentary, Dialogue, and Dinner

When: 6:30pm
Where: Student Union Ballroom (Fred T. Long), Marshall

Join us for an evening of documentary viewing, guided discussion, and community dinner as we reflect on the movement and its lessons for today.

*All dates and information are subject to change. Contact us if there are changes to the schedule or if we left anything out

LOOKING FOR MORE?

Our mission at The East Texas Weekend is to show you that you’re never too far from FUN!

Things to Do - Special places to visit and activities to do around East Texas.

Live Music - Each month we show you where all the East Texas concerts are.

Food + Drink - Try some of these wonderful places to eat!

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MLK Weekend Events Around East Texas