HISTORY OF

PLANT CITY DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CULTURAL ARTS FESTIVAL

First festival was held in January 1986 in celebration of President Reagan signing a bill in 1983 designating the third Monday of January as a federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The “Improvement League of Plant City, Incorporated” is the organizer and host of this festival. The Improvement League of Plant City, Inc. is a local non-profit organization founded in 1982 by the late Mr. Jeremiah Bailey to provide educational, social and cultural resources to empower the community.

Plant City Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cultural Arts Festival

A five day cultural event held in Plant City during the week leading up to the Dr. King Federal Holiday. Activities start on Thursday and ends on the federal holiday “Monday”.

Event activities starting in 1985 initially included; a reception, parade, vendors, memorial service and leadership breakfast. The success of the event lead to other activities being added such as a step show, carnival rides, music/live entertainment, art exhibits, forums, and senior citizen luncheon.

Volunteers from the Improvement League of Plant City, Inc., organize and put this event together each year.

Traditionally the festival has served as a fundraiser for the various programs and services offered by the Improvement League of Plant City, Inc.

Programs funded by proceeds:
Striving for Excellence Academy After-School & Summer Program
Annual “Let’s Talk About It” Teen Conference
Computer Lab
Senior Citizens Christmas Dinner
Youth Summer Camp
College Scholarships

During the past five years proceeds have also funded:
Restoration of the Plant City Bing Rooming House
Plant City Eagles Football & Cheerleading Program

Promoting diversity in Plant City is the main goal of the Plant City MLK Festival. This upcoming year we will celebrate our 23rd year hosting this festival.

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