YWCA Greater Charleston announces 2026 MLK Tribute theme and event schedule

Beginning January 15, 2026, South Carolinians will gather to celebrate the 54th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute, one of the longest-running tributes to Dr. King in the nation. Organized by YWCA Greater Charleston, this multi-day series honors Dr. King’s vision and calls the community to pursue justice rooted in compassion, commitment, and collective progress.

This years theme,  Justice in Action: Investing in People, Purpose, and Progress, highlights the urgent work of strengthening communities through equity, opportunity, and shared responsibility.

MLK Business and Professional Breakfast
Date: January 15, 2026
Time: 7:00AM
Location: The Charleston Gaillard Center |  95 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401

A gathering of business, civic, and community leaders committed to advancing economic equity and opportunity throughout the Charleston region, this year’s Breakfast Summit promises an energizing experience. With a dynamic keynote speaker set to take the stage, sponsors and attendees are in for a treat. Sponsorship opportunities are now open, offering partners a meaningful way to support the celebration while elevating their visibility and impact.

Youth Open Mic Night
Date: January 17, 2026
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Fox Music House | 4248 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29405

As part of the 2026 MLK Tribute, young artists, ages 16-25 are invited to take the stage at our Annual Youth Open Mic Night for a chance to win cash prizes. Whether you sing, dance, perform spoken word, or bring another unique creative talent, this is your moment to shine. Registration is required to participate and be eligible for prizes.

Ecumenical Service
Date: January 18, 2026
Time: 4:00PM
Location: Charity Missionary Baptist Church | 1544 E Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC

Also free and open to the public, the MLK Ecumenical Service will offer a high-energy, empowering worship experience that unites faith communities across traditions in reflection, prayer, and collective dedication to justice and healing. With this year’s speaker to be announced, attendees can expect an inspiring message that honors Dr. King’s legacy and calls the community toward continued action and hope.

MLK Day Parade
Date: January 19, 2026
Time: 10:00AM
Location: Downtown Charleston — starting at Burke High School

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Parade will once again serve as the grand finale of this year’s tribute. Free and open to the public, the parade invites community members to line the streets and cheer on more than 150 participants, including marching bands, floats, dance groups, and community organizations. The parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 19, starting at Burke High School in downtown Charleston, proceeding to Marion Square, and turning east onto Calhoun Street. All parade participants must register here in advance to take part.

ABOUT YWCA GREATER CHARLESTON

For 118 years, YWCA Greater Charleston has worked to eliminate racism and empower women in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties. Among its initiatives to eliminate racism are its multi-day MLK Celebration, one of the first MLK tributes in the nation, Stand Against Racism, and Racial Equity & Inclusion workshops equipping leaders and laypeople to combat racism. Among its initiatives to empower women and girls are its #WhatWomenBring event celebrating South Carolina’s women in business, community, and culture, WE 360° workshops helping women of color overcome barriers in entrepreneurship, Y Girls Code clubs financially empowering girls, and SheStrong, empowering young women to develop as leaders and changemakers. For more information, visit ywcagc.org.