One of the most popular ways to commemorate the work and life of Martin Luther King Jr. is by exploring the interconnected regional trails of Orange County. Dr. King promoted peace and meditation, and taking to the trails is a fantastic way to reflect on how you can live a life of service. The weather is cooler, and including a few strolls (or challenging scrambles!) around the Anaheim area has never been better. Arrive early to have the scenic beauty to yourself.
Organizations like OneOC promotes the long weekend as “a day on, not off,” and offers a variety of ways you can volunteer in the community. Visit www.oneoc.org for information and to sign up for your unique way to give. Alternatively, if you’re with a group, you can get the project toolkit and have everything you need to create your own project.
The Big Event
Don’t miss the 30th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Peace and Unity Parade and Celebration, which kicks off in Long Beach and welcomes over 25,000 attendees each year. It starts at 10:30 a.m. on the corner of MLK and Atlantic Avenues. Find a spot along the route and you’ll be treated to marching bands, floats, competitive yet friendly contests and much more.
The festival continues until 6 p.m. with entertainment including dancing, live music and more. Take a whirl on one of the carnival rides, and peruse the food trucks and vendors. There are arts and crafts activities for children and local non-profits offering options for giving back. In the spirit of justice, it’s the major holiday weekend event many flock to the OC to attend.
