Lakewood, WA — The City of Lakewood and Pierce College invite the community to a vibrant and interactive community celebration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, from 6 - 8 p.m at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom in the Cascade Building. The event will feature performances, workshops, a student art show, and hands-on activities for all ages.
This event is made possible through collaboration with Pierce College, Clover Park School District, Lakewood Playhouse, Mi Centro, Vibrant Schools of Puget Sound, and the City of Lakewood, among others.
The event includes:
- Free community dinner – while supplies last!
- Entertaining performances including Wadai Ko Japanese Drummers, multicultural dance groups, spoken word artists, and more.
- Hands-on activities for all ages, including balloon-making, face-painting, crafts, and a community quilt-making station!
- Keynote Speaker Dr. John Scott will share reflections on Dr. King’s enduring impact.
- Lakewood Playhouse Performance of For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide. Free tickets available now via the Lakewood Playhouse box office.
- Food Drive benefitting Nourish Pierce County – bring a canned food donation to support our community
- Youth Workshop: “Youth in Action, Beloved Community” in the cafeteria, empowering young voices through creativity and dialogue.