2026 Greater Fort Worth MLK Holiday Parade & Rally: Honoring the Legacy
Join the Greater Fort Worth MLK Jr. Holiday Committee for a day of celebration, reflection, and community action. As one of North Texas’s most anticipated annual events, the parade transforms downtown Fort Worth into a vibrant corridor of music, culture, and unity, concluding with a powerful rally in the heart of the city.
📅 Event At-A-Glance
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
- Parade Start: 11:00 AM (Line-up begins at 10:00 AM)
- Location: Downtown Fort Worth, TX
- Cost: Free for spectators
- Theme: "Living the Dream: It Takes a Team" (Pending official 2026 finalization, often centered on Unity and Service)
📍 2026 Fort Worth Parade Route
The parade follows a traditional "U-shaped" route through the central business district, providing excellent visibility from various downtown blocks.
- Starting Point: The procession assembles and begins at the corner of 9th Street and Commerce Street (near the Fort Worth Convention Center).
- The Procession: * Proceeds West on 9th Street.
- Turns North onto Houston Street.
- Turns East onto Weatherford Street.
- Turns South onto Main Street.
- Ending Point: The parade concludes at Main and 3rd Street, leading directly into the Sundance Square Plaza for the post-parade rally.
🎺 What to Expect: Highlights & Participants
- Marching Bands: Show-stopping performances from local high schools and university drumlines.
- Community Floats: Decorated entries from local non-profits, churches, and Greek-letter organizations (fraternities and sororities).
- Post-Parade Rally: Immediately following the march, a rally is held at Sundance Square featuring keynote speakers, youth performances, and community awards.
- Dignitaries: Appearances by the Fort Worth Mayor, City Council members, and Tarrant County officials.
🚆 Logistics: Parking & Transportation
Downtown Fort Worth will experience significant street closures starting at 9:00 AM on parade day.
- Parking: * Public Garages: Multiple garages are available near 9th & Main and 3rd & Commerce. Note that many garages offer free parking on weekends, but holiday rates may apply.
- Surface Lots: Available around the Convention Center; arrive before 10:00 AM as these fill quickly.
- Public Transit: The Trinity Metro (TEXRail or Bus) is highly recommended. The Fort Worth Central Station is just a few blocks from the parade route, making it the easiest way to avoid traffic.
- Participant Drop-off: Dedicated zones are usually established near the Convention Center for groups and floats; follow directional signage on-site.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I still register to march in the parade?
Yes, registration typically opens in late fall. Entry fees apply for vehicles and large groups ($150–$200 range). Visit the official website for the 2026 application link.
Where is the best place to sit?
Houston Street and Main Street offer the most sidewalk space. Many families prefer sitting near Sundance Square to be in place for the rally immediately after the final float passes.
Is the event accessible?
Yes. Downtown Fort Worth features ADA-compliant curb cuts and flat sidewalks. Early arrival is recommended to secure a spot at the front of the barricades for those using wheelchairs.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Fort Worth Convention Center (12th & Commerce), 1301 Commerce Street, Fort Worth, United States
USD 12.51 to USD 268.61
