The city of Surprise announced plans for the eighth annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration and Service, which will be held on Saturday, Jan. 13 at the Vista Center for the Arts, 15660 N. Parkview Place.

This free event provides a way to serve the community with a hands-on service project, as well as a celebration for all ages filled with local musicians, performers and inspiring speakers.

In preparation for the celebration, the city is seeking sponsors, performers, art and essay contest submissions and community service volunteers. Sponsorship packages range from $500 to $3,000.

Contact Lord Garcillano, human service and community vitality community engagement partner, at 623-222-1647, or at lord.garcillano@surpriseaz.gov for sponsorship.

The 2024 MLK Art and Essay Competition theme is Unity, Service and Collaboration. This is an opportunity for residents to showcase what this theme inspires in them and how they think Dr. King’s legacy has impacted the Surprise community.

The Surprise Martin Luther King Jr. Advisory Committee is seeking vocal and other performing artists or groups that suit the feel of the event. Performances or songs should complement the life, legacy and work of MLK.

Volunteers are also needed to help with a community service project at the event. Projects run from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. the morning of the event. Advanced registration is required. If interested in volunteering, email Larry Garcia at larry.garcia@surpriseaz.gov.

For information about the MLK event, contact Garcillano, or visit surpriseaz.gov/MLK.