Due to impending winter weather expected this weekend, the MLK Jr. Parade: “Urgency Meet Legacy – Living the Dream Today” has been postponed and rescheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in Downtown Smithfield.

Hosted by the NAACP Johnston County Branch, the parade is free and open to the public and will follow the planned route along Market Street from 6th Street to 2nd Street.

Organizers made the decision to postpone the event to ensure the safety of parade participants, spectators, volunteers, and staff, as winter weather could create hazardous conditions in the downtown area. The rescheduled parade will continue to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring Doris Wallace as Grand Marshal and Comedian Jay Derrell as Parade Master of Ceremonies.

Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars for the new date and watch for additional event and traffic information as February 21 approaches. For more information about the MLK Jr. Parade or the NAACP Johnston County Branch, visit joconaacp.org or follow @naacp_johnstoncounty_nc on social media.