activities on martin luther king day 2025

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed annually on the third Monday of January, is not just a day off—it’s an opportunity to honor the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential civil rights leaders. This federally recognized holiday challenges us to engage in acts of service, learn more about social justice, and reflect on the principles of equality and nonviolence that King championed.

January 20, 2025, marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day this year. If you’re wondering how to spend the day in a way that pays tribute to Dr. King, this guide offers ten meaningful activities to inspire you. Whether you’re participating individually or with your community, there are countless ways to make this day one of reflection, action, and impact.

1. Attend a Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade or March

Participating in a local MLK Day parade or march is a powerful way to stand for the values Dr. King upheld. Many cities host parades featuring speeches, floats celebrating equality, and performances from local artists. Check your city’s events calendar for any planned local marches or parades. Walking in a march echoes the historical actions of civil rights leaders and can connect you to others who share your commitment to justice.

2. Volunteer in Your Community

Dr. King believed deeply in the concept of servant leadership. Honor his legacy by dedicating a few hours to volunteering for a cause that matters to you. Consider opportunities such as working at a food bank, cleaning up a local park, mentoring youth, or delivering meals to those in need. You can find volunteer opportunities in your area through platforms such as VolunteerMatch or United Way.

Many organizations host special service events on MLK Day, so it’s the perfect time to involve your family, friends, or co-workers in making a difference.

3. Reflect and Educate Yourself on Dr. King’s Legacy

Set aside time to listen to Dr. King’s speeches or read his works, including the “I Have a Dream” speech or “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” These timeless messages still resonate today, addressing topics such as racial justice, economic equality, and the importance of nonviolent protest.

For younger audiences, there are excellent books and videos available, like “Martin’s Big Words” by Doreen Rappaport, which introduces the values of Dr. King in an age-appropriate way. Educating yourself or refreshing your understanding about his life is a beautiful way to honor his message.

4. Watch Documentaries or Films

Watching a documentary or film can bring Dr. King’s life and the civil rights movement vividly to life. Some highly recommended options include:

• “Selma” – A dramatization of the Selma to Montgomery marches led by Dr. King in 1965.
• “Eyes on the Prize” – A documentary series chronicling the civil rights movement from 1954 to 1985.
• “King in the Wilderness” – An intimate documentary on the final years of Dr. King’s life.

Gather your friends or family for a movie night and follow it with a meaningful discussion about the themes explored.

5. Join in a Day of Dialogue on Race and Equity

Many communities host panels, discussions, or workshops on MLK Day centered on racial equity, diversity, and inclusion. Attending one of these events can provide valuable insights and foster an open dialogue about how we can all contribute to creating a more just society.

Look for online webinars or in-person events organized by local nonprofits, churches, or universities in your area.

6. Support Black-Owned Businesses

Dr. King was a staunch advocate for economic justice and understood how economic empowerment was tied to the fight for equality. One way you can honor that legacy is by supporting Black-owned businesses in your area or online.

Take some time to research local coffee shops, bookstores, or restaurants owned by members of the Black community and aim to make a purchase (or several) to show your support.

7. Write Letters for Change

Dr. King challenged people to become active citizens in shaping their society. One impactful way to carry out this vision is by writing letters to elected officials about causes or policies you’re passionate about. Whether it’s urging local leaders to pass equity-focused legislation or advocating for more educational opportunities in underserved areas, your voice matters.

Start by identifying officials’ contact information via their government websites and compose messages that are respectful yet assertive, just as Dr. King would have done.

8. Visit a Civil Rights Museum or Historical Site

If you’re able, plan a visit to a museum or site dedicated to the civil rights movement. The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee, located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. King was assassinated, offers an in-depth look at his life and the larger movement he was a part of.

Other notable destinations include the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, Georgia, or the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute in Alabama. Visiting these spaces can be profoundly impactful and serve as a reminder of how far we’ve come—and how far we still need to go.

9. Participate in an MLK Day 5K

Many cities host MLK Day 5K runs or walks as a way to commemorate his commitment to community and health. These events often support local charities or nonprofits, giving them an extra layer of significance.

Whether you’re an avid runner or just want to take a leisurely stroll with family, it’s a memorable way to combine fitness with civic engagement.

10. Organize a Discussion Group

If you’re part of a book club, community organization, or even a group of friends, consider hosting a discussion about civil rights and social justice. Choose a topic, book, or King-related work as the basis for your conversation.

Some great conversation starters include:

• Where do you see Dr. King’s ideas reflected in society today?
• Which of his principles do you think is most relevant to the challenges we face now?
• How can we promote equality and nonviolence in our personal lives?

Bringing people together for meaningful dialogue continues Dr. King’s vision of peaceful, collective action.