Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas (BTGA) proudly announces the 10th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, scheduled for Monday, January 19, 2026, in Texarkana, Arkansas. This milestone event celebrates ten years of honoring the life, leadership, and enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through unity, service, and community pride.
The MLK Parade has become a signature event for the region—bringing together families, schools, churches, civic leaders, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to reflect on Dr. King’s message of justice, equality, and love in action. The 2026 parade will highlight not only remembrance, but also the continued work needed to strengthen and uplift our communities.
Parade Details
- Line-Up Begins: 10:30 a.m.
- Parade Start Time: 11:30 a.m.
- Line-Up Location: American Legion Post #2558
525 E. Broad Street, Texarkana, AR
Parade Route
The parade will proceed:
- Down Broad Street to Front Street Plaza
- Continue onto Olive Street
- Travel along Stateline Avenue
- Conclude on 4th Street, returning to the American Legion
Residents are encouraged to line the route and celebrate as participants march in honor of Dr. King’s legacy.
Registration Information
Registration is now open. Applications and payments must be submitted in person at:
Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas
209 East 14th Street
Texarkana, AR 71854
- Registration Deadline: January 15, 2026
- No registrations will be accepted on the day of the event
Participation Categories & Fees
The parade welcomes:
- Floats and walking groups
- Vehicles and equestrian units
- Pageant titleholders
- Schools, churches, and youth organizations
- Community groups, businesses, and nonprofit organizations
Parade Entry Fee: $20
Vendor Fee: $25
Leadership Voices
Parade Organizer Brandon P. Houff shared:
“The MLK Parade is more than just a march—it’s a powerful reminder of unity, courage, and community strength. For ten years, we have come together to honor Dr. King’s legacy and renew our commitment to one another. The 2026 celebration will be one of our most inspiring yet, and we invite everyone to join us in lifting his message across our city.” — Brandon P. Houff, Parade Organizer
Barbara Pitts-Riley, Executive Director and Managing Partner of Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas, emphasized the deeper community impact of the event:
“This parade represents more than a single day—it reflects our shared responsibility to carry Dr. King’s vision forward every day. As we celebrate ten years, we are reminded that unity, service, and compassion are still needed in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our families. Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas is honored to help create a space where the entire community can come together, reflect, and recommit to building a stronger, more equitable future.”
— Barbara Pitts-Riley, Executive Director & Managing Partner, BTGA
Contact Information
For additional information, registration details, or vendor inquiries, please contact:
- Brandon P. Houff: (903) 417-2342
- Barbara Pitts-Riley: (903) 908-9754
About Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas (BTGA)
Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through education, empowerment, prevention initiatives, and meaningful engagement. BTGA serves communities across Southwest Arkansas by connecting families, youth, and partners in efforts that promote hope, unity, and positive change.