NAACP To Host MLK Jr. Parade In Downtown Smithfield

SMITHFIELD — The NAACP Johnston County Branch will host the MLK Jr. Parade, themed “Urgency Meet Legacy – Living the Dream Today,” on Saturday, February 21, in Downtown Smithfield.

The parade begins at 11 a.m. and is free and open to the public.

Organizers said the event will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while encouraging community members to continue his work through service and civic engagement. The parade route will travel along Market Street from 6th Street to 2nd Street.

Doris Wallace will serve as grand marshal, and comedian Jay Derrell has been named master of ceremonies.

“The theme ‘Urgency Meet Legacy’ reminds us that Dr. King’s message remains just as relevant today as it was during the Civil Rights Movement,” organizers said in a statement, describing the event as both a celebration and a call to action.

For safety reasons, organizers said any candy distributed during the parade will be handed directly to attendees rather than thrown into the crowd.

Motorists should expect temporary traffic impacts in the downtown area before and during the event. Officials encourage attendees to arrive early and plan accordingly.