The city of Valdosta, Georgia, is set to honor the legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. with a series of celebratory events on January 18 and January 19, 2026. The festivities will include community performances and a special recognition ceremony for the MLK Humanitarian Award recipient.
On Sunday, January 18, at 3 p.m., the celebration will commence at MorningStar Baptist Church, located at 1051 Howell Road. The event will feature a keynote address by Reverend Naamen Hooker, Pastor of the church. Attendees will also witness the honoring of the recipient of the MLK Humanitarian Award, an accolade recognizing individuals who significantly contribute to their communities in the spirit of Dr. King.
The festivities continue on Monday, January 19, at 11 a.m. in the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at 3101 Barack Obama Blvd. Youth from Valdosta and surrounding areas will showcase their talents through various performances, including singing, dancing, and dramatic arts. The event aims to provide a platform for young artists to express themselves and celebrate the values championed by Dr. King.
In a community-focused initiative, attendees are encouraged to bring canned goods on January 19. These donations will be given to the LAMP Homeless Shelter to support families in need. Additionally, the winners of the 2026 MLK Poetry & Essay Contest will be recognized during the event, further promoting youth engagement and creativity.
All events are free to the public, inviting community members to come together to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy and to celebrate the contributions of local youth. The celebration not only honors the past but also empowers the next generation to continue advocating for justice and equality.
