39th Annual San Antonio MLK March & Celebration: The Nation’s Largest March
Join the City of San Antonio and the MLK Jr. Commission for the 39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. March and Celebration. Drawing crowds of more than 300,000 participants, San Antonio’s march is a powerful, peaceful demonstration of unity and justice that has earned the title of the largest MLK march in the nation.
The 2026 event continues this storied tradition, bringing together people from all walks of life to "Keep the Dream in Motion" through the historic East Side of San Antonio.
📅 Event At-A-Glance
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
- March Start Time: 10:00 AM (Lineup begins as early as 7:30 AM)
- Park Celebration: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Location: East Side San Antonio, TX
- Cost: Free and open to the public
- Chairperson: Dr. Doshie Piper (MLK Commission Chair)
📍 2026 San Antonio MLK March Route
The route covers approximately 2.75 miles through San Antonio's historic East Side, ending at a massive community festival.
- Starting Point: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy (3501 Martin Luther King Dr, San Antonio, TX 78203).
- The Procession: The march travels West along MLK Drive, crossing over the New Braunfels Ave bridge.
- Ending Point: Pittman-Sullivan Park (1101 Iowa St, San Antonio, TX 78203).
- Important Note: To maintain the spirit of a "march," motorcycles, cars, and other motor vehicles are strictly prohibited in the procession. This is a pedestrian-only event.
🎺 What to Expect: Highlights & Participants
- The March Kickoff: An inspiring opening ceremony at the MLK Academy featuring community leaders and prayer.
- Pittman-Sullivan Park Celebration: The march concludes with a day-long festival featuring:
- Main Stage: Multicultural musical performances and keynote speakers.
- Health & Wellness Area: Free health screenings and community resources.
- Youth Area: Interactive activities and educational booths for children.
- Marketplace: Diverse food and merchandise vendors.
- Scholarship Awards: Recognition of local students continuing Dr. King’s legacy through education.
🚆 Logistics: Free VIA Bus Service & Parking
Parking near the starting line is extremely limited. Attendees are highly encouraged to use the Free VIA "Keep the Dream in Motion" Bus Service.
- Bus Service to the March (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Passengers can park and ride for free from:
- Freeman Coliseum: 3201 E. Houston St. (Lot 1)
- St. Philip’s College: 1801 Martin Luther King Dr. (Lot 22)
- Return Service (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM): Buses will return passengers from Pittman-Sullivan Park to the original pickup locations.
- Road Closures: MLK Drive and surrounding side streets will be closed to vehicle traffic starting at 7:00 AM.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the San Antonio MLK March really the largest in the country?
Yes! San Antonio consistently records the highest attendance of any MLK march in the U.S., often exceeding 300,000 marchers.
Can I bring my dog?
While public parks allow pets, the march is extremely crowded and loud. For the safety of your pet and other participants, it is generally recommended to leave pets at home.
Are there restrooms along the route?
Portable toilets are located at the MLK Academy (start), various points along MLK Drive, and throughout Pittman-Sullivan Park (end).
What should I wear?
San Antonio weather in January can fluctuate. Wear comfortable walking shoes (it is nearly 3 miles) and dress in layers.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Martin Luther King Jr. Academy, 3501 Martin Luther King Dr, San Antonio, TX, 78203, United States
