Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration - Happening January 16, 2027!
Join us at the Performing Arts & Event Center for our MLK Celebration at 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way S, Federal Way, WA 98003
Join the Federal Way Diversity Commission for its annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Remembrance Event, one of the largest MLK Jr. gatherings in South King County. The event brings the community together to honor Dr. King's legacy through inspiring speakers, cultural performances, and the lighting of the Federal Way Community Flame — a tradition recognizing local leaders who embody the city's shared values. Each year's program showcases the vibrant diversity of Federal Way, featuring dance, music, and performances rooted in traditions from around the world alongside beloved local talent. All are welcome to come celebrate community, culture, and Dr. King's dream.
K-12 Student Art Contest 2027 - Cash Awards!
The City of Federal Way invites students to participate in the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Community Celebration Student Art Contest. Students are encouraged to use their creativity to reflect on Dr. King’s message of unity, community, and working together to create a brighter tomorrow.
Students should consider the following for their submissions:
- In what ways did Dr. King call us to be one community?
- What can community members do to bring unity together?
- As a young person, what can you do to help us become one community?
Deadline to Submit: 5:00 PM on Friday, December 4, 2026
Click here for more information about the Student Art Contest
“Many Faces, Many Voices – One Community”
“The future of our young people, our state and our nation is, after all, in our many, diverse, collective and very capable hands.”
— Dr. Maria Roberta Montel
About the Theme
Students should consider the following questions for their submissions:
- In what ways did Dr. King call us to be one community?
- What can community members do to bring unity together?
- As a young person, what can you do to help us become one community?
Different People. Stronger Together.
Use your creativity to show how we can build a stronger, more inclusive community!
Awards
Prizes are awarded for each grade category.
- K–2nd Grade
- 1st Place: $100
- 2nd Place: $50
- 3rd Place: $25
- 3rd–5th Grade
- 1st Place: $100
- 2nd Place: $50
- 3rd Place: $25
- 6th–8th Grade
- 1st Place: $200
- 2nd Place: $100
- 3rd Place: $50
- 9th–12th Grade
- 1st Place: $200
- 2nd Place: $100
- 3rd Place: $50
Eligibility & Submission Requirements
Grades K–2:
Submit your poster on 8½” × 11” paper along with the Official MLK Celebration Student Contest Entry Form.
Grades 3–5:
Submit your poster on 8½” × 11” paper along with the Official MLK Celebration Student Contest Entry Form.
Grades 6–8:
Submit your poster on 11” × 17” paper along with the Official MLK Celebration Student Contest Entry Form.
Grades 9–12:
Submit your poster on 11” × 17” paper along with the Official MLK Celebration Student Contest Entry Form.
Submission Deadline
All entries must be delivered or postmarked by 5 p.m., Friday, December 4, 2026.
Where to Submit Your Entry
Hand Deliver:
Federal Way City Hall
33325 8th Ave. S.
Federal Way, WA 98003
Mail Your Entry:
Diversity Commission
MLK Committee
33325 8th Ave. S.
Federal Way, WA 98003
For More Information
For more information, contact the City of Federal Way Diversity Commission MLK Committee. Email: Diversity@FederalWayWA.gov
Required notice for distribution by Federal Way Public Schools:
This event/activity/offer is not sponsored by the Federal Way School District and the District assumes no responsibility for the conduct of safety during this event/activity/offer. In consideration for the privilege to distribute these materials, the Federal Way School District shall be held harmless from any cause of action, claim, or petition filed in any court or administrative tribunal arising from the materials, including all costs, attorney’s fees, and judgments or awards.