Smithfield MLK Parade Postponed To Feb. 21 Due To Weather

SMITHFIELD — The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade in Smithfield, originally scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 24, has been postponed to Saturday, Feb. 21 due to the forecast of inclement weather this weekend.

The parade, organized by the NAACP Johnston County Branch, will celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy under the theme “Urgency Meets Legacy – Living the Dream Today.” The event is set to begin at 11:00 a.m., with the route running along Market Street from Sixth Street to Second Street in downtown Smithfield.

Doris Wallace will serve as Grand Marshal, and comedian Jay Derrell will return as Parade Master of Ceremonies. Organizers encourage the community to attend and honor Dr. King’s legacy of unity, service, and reflection.

The parade is free and open to the public. Attendees and motorists should anticipate temporary traffic impacts in downtown Smithfield during the event.