San Antonio's Annual MLK March
January 18, 2027
Celebrating its 40th year, the Annual San Antonio MLK March is one of the largest in the country.
The city's community, as well as visitors from across the country, come together on the third Monday in January to commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. What started as a grassroots effort in 1968 by the Rev. R.A. Callies has grown into the nation's largest march.
The celebration, sponsored by the City of San Antonio, begins at Martin Luther King Jr. Academy and ends at Pittman-Sullivan Park.
Don't miss this chance to gather with the community to march for human and civil rights.
Know Before You Go
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Date: Monday, January 18, 2027.
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Start time: March kickoff at 10:00 a.m. Lineup begins as early as 9:00 a.m.
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Starting point: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy, 3501 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
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Route: About 2.75 miles along Martin Luther King Jr. Drive through San Antonio’s Historic East Side.
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End point and celebration: Pittman Sullivan Park, 1101 Iowa Street, with a post-march celebration featuring a main stage, cultural performances, vendors, youth activities, wellness area, and community booths.
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Getting there: VIA typically offers special Park and Ride service and event-day support along the march route. Check VIA details closer to the event week for pick-up points and timing.
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Accessibility and rules: The route is flat and walkable. Cars and other motor vehicles are not allowed on the march route. Wheelchairs and mobility devices are welcome.
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What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and weather-ready layers. January mornings can be chilly.
More Than a March
The 2026 Martin Luther King, Jr. March and Celebration begins with the kickoff at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy, followed by a community celebration at Pittman Sullivan Park.
This day is more than a gathering. It’s a powerful show of unity, where people from all walks of life come together to honor Dr. King’s legacy and the values he stood for. The march reminds us that an inclusive society belongs to everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background.
Everyone is invited to participate. As one of the most diverse major cities in the nation, San Antonio’s cultural communities converge on the East Side for a nearly 3-mile march filled with purpose and hope.
Local organizations help lead the way, but every marcher is encouraged to walk alongside the community. Review the route and parking details in advance, including VIA park-and-ride bus options, so your day feels easy from start to finish.
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