The City of Surprise is excited to announce the 5th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration and Service. The event will be held virtually in January 2021 and in preparation for the celebration, the city is seeking sponsors, performers, art contest submissions and community service volunteers. 

The exact date for the virtual program is still being determined, but will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and focus on his community-building efforts and service to others. The program is for all ages and will include a variety of local musicians, performers and speakers. The community service portion of the event will take place in person, but with enhanced safety measures that follow CDC guidelines to protect against COVID-19.

How to get involved: 

Your sponsorship will contribute to the ongoing viability of this community centric program. As a fast growing city, it is important Surprise creates culturally significant events and promotes service to others. By forming these types of traditions, the community can continue to be inclusive and celebrate history, diversity, and the human spirit. See details. 

The Surprise Martin Luther King Jr. Advisory Committee is seeking video submissions from vocal and other performing artists or groups that suit the feel of the event. Suggested songs could include The National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing, and We Shall Overcome. Submissions of other songs are welcome! See details.

The theme for the 2021 MLK Art Competition is Unity, Service, and Collaboration. We want to see what this topic inspires in you, whether it’s thoughts of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. giving his well-known speech, “I Have a Dream”, or one of his most famous marches. Maybe it’s how you think Dr. King’s legacy has contributed to your community. Be creative in highlighting these special moments in history using your artistic talents. See details. 

Volunteer to help with a community service project around town. Projects will last approximately 1-4 hours. Advanced registration is required due to COVID-19 gathering limitations. Please email Larry Garcia at larry.garcia@surpriseaz.gov if you are interested in volunteering.  

For more information, please contact Lord Garcillano at lord.garcillano@surpriseaz.gov or visit surpriseaz.gov/MLK.