All listed events, and more, can be viewed online on The OBSERVER’s community events calendar at SacObserver.com. Be sure to submit your events two weeks in advance to have the chance to be featured on the list.

  1. 2026 MLK Essay Contest 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at Oak Park Community Center. Support the honorees of the 2026 MLK Essay contest and find out who was awarded. For more information, call Gary Simon at 916-541-2582.
  2. MLK Community Breakfast 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 17, at The Center at District56, 8230 Civic Center Drive No. 100, Elk Grove. This highly anticipated annual gathering unites civic leaders, corporate partners, educators, faith leaders, and community members for an inspiring morning of reflection, fellowship, and action, honoring Dr. King’s vision while recognizing today’s drum majors for justice, peace, and righteousness. Tickets from $18.
  3. MLK 2026 Free SacRT Rides 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at participating SacRT lines. Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) offers free rides on buses and light rail to and from MLK Day events. You typically need to show a specific flier, available on the SacRT or MLK365 websites, to the operator.
  4. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Call To Action 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at Grant Union High School. Join the Roberts Family Development Center as they honor and celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Together, we will march in solidarity, lifting up the values of peace, justice, and dignity for all. Let’s walk united, inspired by Dr. King’s dream and committed to continuing the work. Free and open to the public. 
  5. 44th Annual MLK March 8:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 19, starting at Sacramento City College and ending at SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. March for the Dream honors Dr. King by ensuring that people from all backgrounds and walks of life may share in this impactful experience. Free and open to the community.
  6. MLK365 Diversity Expo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. Marchers and community members can attend the MLK365 Diversity Expo. More than 100 organizations will offer resources, education, and health services. Free and open to the public.
  7. The Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Sacramento 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at Sacramento State, University Ballroom. Guests will enjoy an evening of inspiration, recognition, and community unity. The program includes a keynote address, performances, and the presentation of the Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award. Bishop Parnell Lovelace is the keynote speaker, and Pastor Kevin Brown will be honored with the Community Service Award. Tickets from $100.