The 2024 MLK/Black History will roll at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 17 in downtown Minden. The parade will begin and end on Main Street near the Water Tower and First United Methodist Church. Fayrine Kennon-Gilbert will serve as this year’s Grand Marshall.

Parade entries will compete for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place in the following categories: Best Decorated Car/Truck, Best Decorated Float, Best Band Performance and Most Spirited Group. The judges will have a tough job in deciding winners from the 30 entries including 5 Bands: Webster Jr. High School, Logansport High School, Minden High School, Woodlawn High School, and Peabody High School of Alexandria, Louisiana, At the conclusion of the 35+ entry parade, a crowd pleaser, the Annual Battle of the Bands will feature the high school bands competing for bragging rights as Battle of the Band Winner.

As a part of Saturday’s events, the Annual Youth Rally will include the honoring of local Trail Blazers who have made historical accomplishments and/or given service to our community. The Endow A Dream Scholarship recipients will also be announced. Karl Pearce will be the motivation speaker to our young people encouraging them to be the best they can be and never give up no matter what they face in life.

The youth rally and Battle of the Bands will take place at Minden Civic Center.

Local Vendors will be on hand offering various food options, crafts, sweet treats, and important information regarding health care and insurance.

Parade Entries are still being accepted. If you would like to be of the 2024 MLK/Black History parade contact Reginald Bridges @ 318-470-2031 or Michael Walker @ 318-210-1799.