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, Dr. King’s actual birthday, through January 25 and culminating on February 17, this multi-week celebration will highlight culture, history and community engagement in the Shreveport-Bossier and surrounding areas.

318 MLK DreamFest Schedule of Events

JANUARY 15

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Party Municipal Auditorium, 6 p.m. 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 and outstanding high school seniors and culminating with a step show by area Divine 9 Greek fraternities and sororities.

JANUARY 17

Krewe of Sobek Grande Bal XXII Shreveport Convention Center, 6 p.m. 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.

JANUARY 18

Krewe of Sobek Parade Louisiana State Fairgrounds, 1 p.m. The lively Krewe of Sobek Parade rolls through the Louisiana State Fairgrounds at 1 p.m., bringing Mardi Gras magic with vibrant floats, music and community spirit.

JANUARY 20 “Beyond Galilee” Screening and Networking Reception Robinson Film Center, 6 p.m. 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 and features a networking reception with multigenerational guest leaders. MLK Resource Fair David Raines Community Center, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. 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

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.

JANUARY 23

MLK: Art & Activism Exhibit Reception Multicultural Center of the South, 4:30 p.m. 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.

JANUARY 25

2nd Annual Bridge Builders Breakfast Shreveport Convention Center, 9 a.m. The North Louisiana Civil Rights Coalition presents the 2nd Annual Bridge Builders Breakfast, which recognizes individuals and organizations that advance Dr. King’s vision of servant leadership in North Louisiana across racial, social, civic, economic and geographical barriers.

FEBRUARY 17

MLK Hopes & Dreams Scholarship Breakfast Petroleum Club, 8 a.m. 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, 1 p.m. Celebrating 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 the 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.