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Tampa’s MLK parade was postponed, now canceled

Organizers worry that there still might be gaps in vaccine coverage in June.
The city of Tampa Department of Solid Waste and Environmental Program Management float sports a banner with one of Martin Luther King's quote during the 2018 MLK Day parade in Tampa. The two-mile parade route started at Cuscaden Park and ended at Middleton High School. This year's parade has been canceled and will resume in 2022.
The city of Tampa Department of Solid Waste and Environmental Program Management float sports a banner with one of Martin Luther King's quote during the 2018 MLK Day parade in Tampa. The two-mile parade route started at Cuscaden Park and ended at Middleton High School. This year's parade has been canceled and will resume in 2022. [ "ALESSANDRA DA PRA | TIMES" | Times (2018) ]
By Sharon Kennedy Wynne
Published Mar. 10
Updated Mar. 10

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade in Tampa that had been pushed back to June — instead of January — has now been canceled altogether as organizers say “uncertainties” caused them to decide to wait it out until 2022.

“Though COVID vaccines have thankfully begun distribution statewide and nationally, the foundation feels that uncertainties surrounding the efficiency and reach of the vaccination effort may still leave gaps in coverage for our community by the proposed June date,” said a news release from the Dr. Martin Luther King Parade Foundation.

The city of Tampa’s parade will now take place on MLK Day, Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, “with full participation from our community at large and will hopefully be bigger and better than ever,” the organization said.

At the 2018 parade, members of the Jones High School marching band from Orlando performed in the annual city of Tampa Martin Luther King Day Parade.
At the 2018 parade, members of the Jones High School marching band from Orlando performed in the annual city of Tampa Martin Luther King Day Parade. [ "ALESSANDRA DA PRA | TIMES" | Times (2018) ]

“We don’t want to rush the celebration while some are still hesitant to fully participate,” said foundation president Robert Scott Jr. “We are more comfortable with this decision in light of the present situation.”

The parade will start as usual at Cuscaden Park, 2900 N 15th St., Tampa, beginning at noon and ending at Middleton High School.

For more information on the parade or volunteer opportunities, call 813-803-8060, or visit www.mlkjrparade.com.

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