Myrtle Beach Prepares for 20th Annual Freedom Week

News Summary

Myrtle Beach is gearing up for the 20th Annual Grand Strand Freedom Week from January 17 to 21, 2025. This celebration, organized by the Carolina African American Heritage Foundation, honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Festivities include a kickoff celebration with live music, the MLK Annual Parade, a Community Youth Fair, and a variety of spiritual reflections and local recognition events. The week emphasizes community unity, remembrance, and support through various engaging activities and events for all ages.

Grand Strand Gets Ready for a Celebration of Unity and Remembrance

Get excited, Myrtle Beach! The vibrant city is gearing up for _the 20th Annual Grand Strand Freedom Week_, planned from _January 17 to January 21, 2025_. This delightful event, organized by the _Carolina African American Heritage Foundation (CAAHF)_ in partnership with the City of Myrtle Beach and the _Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce_, is all about celebrating the incredible legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It’s a week filled with joy, reflection, and community spirit!

Kickoff Celebration

The festivities kick off on _January 17, 2025_, at the picturesque Myrtle Beach Train Depot from _5 to 8 p.m._. It’s going to be a fabulous evening with _free refreshments_ and live tunes by _The 100 Grand Band_. What better way to start the week than enjoying great music with family and friends in the heart of Myrtle Beach?

MLK Annual Parade – A Tradition of Unity

Set your alarms! The much-anticipated _MLK Annual Parade_ is on the schedule for _January 18, 2025_, from _10 a.m. to 11 a.m._. Marching along Ocean Boulevard, the parade will follow its cherished route from _15th Avenue North to 8th Avenue North_. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss, as locals and visitors come together in a vibrant display of unity and remembrance. The parade will have a cozy atmosphere as _ABC15’s Camille Gayle_ will be on hand serving as the emcee at Plyer Park, ensuring everyone is engaged and entertained!

Post-Parade Festivities

After the parade, there’s more good stuff lined up! A _Community Youth Fair_ will follow at the Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and the Boys & Girls Club of the Grand Strand, making for a fun-filled afternoon for the young and the young at heart.

Spiritual Reflections

Come for some soulful moments on _January 19, 2025_, during the _CommUNITY Ecumenical Service_ at Mount Olive A.M.E. Church starting at _4 p.m._. This event, with participation from local choirs and ministers, will be a heartfelt occasion aimed at bringing the community together through music and prayer.

Honoring Local Leaders

Then, on _January 20, 2025_, there will be the _annual Drum Major Awards and Breakfast_ at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center at _9 a.m._. This event honors local leaders who embody King’s vision of service and change. Three commendable individuals, including the beloved Myrtle Beach Mayor, will be recognized for their contributions. Tickets can be snagged in advance for just _$25_, making it both an affordable and poignant way to start your day.

Community Support and Celebrations

Throughout the week, the spirit of giving back shines bright with a _food drive_ benefiting Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach. Drop-off locations include the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce on Oak Street, so if you’re able, consider contributing to this fantastic cause!

Fun and Creativity for All Ages

Freedom Week isn’t just about reflection – it’s packed with fun activities too! There will be church services, a basketball tournament in Conway on _January 18_, and an exciting _art contest_ for elementary, middle, and high school students based around the theme “Marching Forward. United in Justice and Peace.” The arts can be a powerful voice for change, making this event a wonderful opportunity for young creators to express themselves. The winners will be honored at a citywide celebration on _January 20_ at Bethel AME Church in Conway.

Mark Your Calendars!

As we eagerly approach Martin Luther King Jr. Day—a federal holiday since _2000_—let’s make it memorable this January. Join together with neighbors, friends, and visitors as we celebrate the remarkable life of Dr. King and the values he championed. Here’s to a week filled with joy, unity, and purpose. The Grand Strand is ready, are you?