The City of Columbus has announced that registration is now open for the 2027 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest. The event will take place on February 6, 2027, and is designed for students in grades K-12 to showcase their public speaking skills and share their voices.

According to the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods, monetary prizes will be awarded to contest winners, and local winners will qualify to represent Columbus in the Statewide MLK Oratorical Contest.

Press Release: City of Columbus

Published November 10, 2026. Reproduced in full from the City of Columbus.

Calling All Young Voices! Register Today for the 2027 MLK Youth Oratorical Contest! Cash prizes

Calling All Young Voices!

Register Today for the 2027 MLK Youth Oratorical Contest! Cash prizes

Registration is now open for the 2027 City of Columbus Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest, hosted by the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods! Join us on Saturday, February 6, 2027, as we celebrate the next generation of young leaders and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

For more than 25 years, this Columbus tradition has provided young people with an opportunity to step up to the microphone, build confidence, strengthen their public speaking skills, and share their voices.

Why Participate?

  • Students in grades K-12 are eligible to participate in four grade divisions
  • Monetary prizes will be awarded to contest winners
  • Local winners qualify to represent Columbus in the Statewide MLK Oratorical Contest

We Need Your Help Spreading the Word!

We're calling on educators, parents, caregivers, mentors, youth-serving organizations, faith communities, and community leaders to help identify and encourage young people who have something meaningful to say. Be the reason a young person steps up to the microphone and shares their voice!

Event Details

Date: Saturday, February 6, 2027
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: TBD

REGISTER TODAY: This link will allow you to access the Department of Neighborhoods website where you can apply and review the Rules and Regulations:

https://tinyurl.com/2027MLKOratoricalInfo

Registration Deadline: Friday, January 22, 2027

Students and families are encouraged to review the Contest Rules and Regulations before applying.

Help us spread the word and celebrate the voices of Columbus youth!