Visit Shreveport-Bossier, in collaboration with Dream Keepers Alliance, Krewe of Harambee, Krewe of Sobek, the Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce and community partners, are proud to announce the inaugural 318 MLK DreamFest, a collective series of events honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Spanning January 15, 2025, Dr. King’s actual birthday, through January 25, 2025 and culminating on February 17, 2025, this multi-week celebration will highlight culture, history, and community engagement in the Shreveport-Bossier and surrounding areas.
318 MLK DreamFest Schedule of Events:
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Party
Municipal Auditorium, 6PM
Presented by the Dream Keepers Alliance and sponsored by the City of Shreveport, this festive celebration will commemorate Dr. King’s 96th birthday by spotlighting inaugural MLK Scholars, outstanding high school seniors, and culminating with a step show by area Divine 9 Greek fraternities and sororities.
Friday, January 17, 2025
Krewe of Sobek Grande Bal XXII
Shreveport Convention Center, 6PM
Celebrate the spirit of “Sobek in Candy Land” as the Krewe of Sobek kicks off their signature Mardi Gras festivities with a spectacular evening of grandeur and revelry filled with dazzling costumes, vibrant colors, and pulsating music.
Saturday, January 18, 2025
Krewe of Sobek Parade
Louisiana State Fairgrounds, 1PM
The lively Krewe of Sobek Parade rolls through the Louisiana State Fairgrounds at 1 PM, bringing Mardi Gras magic with vibrant floats, music, and community spirit.
Monday, January 20, 2025
Beyond Galilee Screening and Networking Reception
Robinson Film Center, 6PM
The Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce presents the acclaimed film Beyond Galilee which explores the Civil Rights Movement in Shreveport and its role on the national landscape. Features a networking reception with multigenerational guest leaders.
MLK Resource Fai
David Raines Community Center, 12PM – 5PM
The Mystic Krewe of Imani presents A Day of Service: MLK Resource Fair. This family-focused event features FREE health screenings, vendors, entertainment, bounce houses, giveaways, workshops on financial literacy and more!
Black History Bus Tours
Varying Times & Locations
Presented by the Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce, these guided tours provide an immersive experience into the rich civil rights history of the local area spotlighting people and places involved in the movement.
January 20-24, 2025
Centenary College Annual Dream Week
Various Campus Locations & Times
Centenary College students, faculty, and staff celebrate the legacy and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during 2025 Dream Week. The week-long celebration includes a schedule of educational and cultural events. Visit centenary.edu/dreamweek for details.
Thursday, January 23, 2025
MLK: Art & Activism Exhibit Reception
Multicultural Center of the South, 4:30PM
The Multicultural Center of the South presents an exhibit opening reception showcasing local and regional artists featuring artwork honoring the spirit of civil rights and cultural heritage.
Saturday, January 25, 2025
2nd Annual Bridge Builders Breakfast
Shreveport Convention Center, 9AMThe North Louisiana Civil Rights Coalition presents the 2nd Annual Bridge Builders Breakfast recognizing individuals and organizations that advance Dr. King’s vision of servant leadership in North Louisiana across racial, social, civic, economic, and geographical barriers.
Saturday, February 17, 2025
MLK Hopes & Dreams Scholarship Breakfast
Petroleum Club, 8AM
In the Spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Krewe of Harambee “pulls together” annually to provide scholarships to deserving high school graduates from single parent homes.
25th Annual MLK Parade
Downtown Shreveport, 1PM
The celebration of Dr. King’s legacy culminates with the Krewe of Harambee’s highly anticipated MLK Parade. Experience vibrant floats, marching bands, and a powerful tribute to Dr. King’s dream.
Join Us for 318 MLK DreamFest!
Residents and visitors are invited to participate in this meaningful celebration of unity, culture, and history. For more information and event updates, go to www.visitshreveportbossier.org/mlk.