Community Events for MLK Celebration in Bluffton and Jasper County

News Summary

Bluffton and Jasper County are gearing up for a variety of community events to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Residents can participate in activities such as a park party with a playground ribbon-cutting, various service projects, and festive parades. Important dates include a community service day, a gospel music event, and the annual MLK Day parade. Join the festivities from January 18 through January 25 to honor Dr. King’s legacy and strengthen community ties.

Exciting Community Events Coming Up in Bluffton and Jasper County for MLK Celebration

As we approach the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, residents of Bluffton and Jasper County have a jam-packed slate of community events to look forward to! Whether it’s a heartfelt community service project or festive parades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and get ready to participate in the spirit of unity and service!

Celebrate with the New Riverside Playground Launch

First up, we have a wonderful Park Party coupled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the New Riverside Playground on January 25. This event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 200 New Riverside Road in Bluffton. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a day in the park while officially welcoming a new space for children to play and explore.

Join the Bluffton Ambassador Program

Curious about all that Bluffton has to offer? The University of South Carolina-Beaufort is hosting a free “Bluffton Ambassador” Program on January 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. This virtual event will take place via Microsoft Teams, allowing residents to learn more about local culture, history, and activities. However, be sure to register beforehand as seating is limited!

Observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day

As we honor the legacy of Dr. King on January 20, please note that many banks, mail centers, and administrative offices in Beaufort County will be closed for the holiday. Normal hours will resume on January 21. No need to worry—emergency services will remain operational during MLK Day. If you need to visit the Beaufort County Convenience Center on Hilton Head Island, it will also be closed on January 20, with regular hours kicking back in on January 21.

Lots of Community Events Throughout MLK Weekend

Residents are encouraged to participate in several notable community events:

• MLK Community Service Project: On January 18 at 9 a.m., a cleanup of Gullah cemeteries will take place—specific locations are to be determined.
• Old Time Gospel Camp Meeting: Come enjoy uplifting music at Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church on January 18 at 3 p.m.
• Poster Making for the MLK Parade: Join the creativity on January 19 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 39 Persimmon Street, Suite 201.
• Hilton Head MLK Day Parade: Bring your friends and family to the parade on January 20, starting at 10 a.m. from Hilton Head High School.
• Memorial Program and Youth Day: Head to the May River Theatre at 20 Bridge Street on January 20 to witness local youth group performances.
• Bluffton MLK Day March: This march kicks off from Bluffton Town Hall at 2 p.m., concluding with a community meal at Oyster Factory Park.
• Beaufort MLK Parade: Also on January 20, the parade will begin at 10 a.m. at the Beaufort National Cemetery.
• Dine & Dance Sneaker Ball: Wrap up your celebrations on January 25, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Port Royal Beach House. Tickets are available for $85.

Other Important Dates to Remember

On January 17, there will be an honoree reception at 7 p.m. at the Palmetto Electric Community Room in Ridgeland to honor Judge Donna Lynah. As part of the celebration, the Jasper County Dr. MLK Jr. Parade is set for January 18 at 10 a.m., with lineup beginning at 8:30 a.m. The Grand Marshal for this parade will be Prophet Leon Witter, and afterward, make sure to check out the fish fry at Turpin Park and the MLK Commemorative Service at Mount Carmel Baptist Center at noon.

And don’t forget, the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the “Chocolate Walk 2025” on February 6, from noon to 7 p.m. Make sure to grab your tickets at $15 each, starting from January 20. There are only 200 tickets available, so don’t delay!

These events are not just an opportunity to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy but also a chance to come together as a close-knit community. Be sure to join in on the festivities and make some lasting memories!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Upcoming Community Events in Ridgeland and Beaufort County
Hilton Head to Host Second Annual Christmas Concert Celebrating Community and Diversity

Additional Resources

• Bluffton Today: Jasper County MLK Jr. Events
• Island Packet: Local News Article
• Bluffton Icon: Chocolate Walk Event
• Google Search: Bluffton Events 2025
• Lima Ohio: January Events
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Martin Luther King Jr.