Updated for 2024
In the United States, the third Monday of January is known as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – a day to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King. (Dr. King was born on January 15th, 1929.) This federal holiday is also the only national holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer in their communities.
Here are a number of ways to celebrate MLK Day, and incorporate Dr. King’s lessons and legacy, into every day.
Things to do to Honor Martin Luther King, Jr.
12th Annual MLK Day Clothing Drive & Community Breakfast
42nd Street Elementary School
4231 4th Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90008
Big Sunday will be hosting its Annual MLK Day Clothing Drive & Community Breakfast on Monday, January 15th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. This special event is described as a “big, wonderful block party with lots of ways for people of all ages to help.” The goal is to put together “2,024 winter clothing kits for all kinds of nice folks who are struggling.” Other activities include a Civil Rights exhibit as well as the Something in Common Project, “where everyone is asked to meet a total stranger, find something that they have in common, and have their picture taken together.” There are many ways to get involved including volunteering on-site, donating new clothes and shoes, sponsoring a new clothing bag, and more. And, there will be a “delicious community breakfast together.” Details and registration information are available online.
MLK Day at the Skirball
Skirball Cultural Center
2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049
“In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and in honor of the legacy of Dr. King, the Skirball is opening its doors and offering free admission to This Light of Ours: Activist Photographers of the Civil Rights Movement as well as free general admission to all galleries. A docent-led tour will be offered at 1:00 pm, and there will be pop-up poetry and spoken-word performances in the galleries throughout the afternoon. Tickets will be offered for Monday, January 15th from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm (last timed-entry is at 2:00 pm). Reserve your tickets online.
Historically Speaking: King: A Life – Virtual Event
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is hosting a special event to honor Dr. King on Monday, January 8th from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm EST. This virtual event features a discussion of Jonathan Big’s recent book, King: A Life, “the first major biography in decades of the civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr.” Streaming information is available online.
2024 MLK Day of Service
The City of Long Beach invites families to participate in its Annual MLK Day of Service on Monday, January 15th. Volunteers will assist with a range of service projects all around Long Beach. There will be something for every age and every ability to participate in. Check the website for more details as they become available.
MLK Volunteer Festival 2024: Take Action to Support Our Beloved Community
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
3911 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90037
“At the Coliseum in 1964, Dr. King passionately and persuasively addressed 15,000 Angelenos on the issues of race relations and human dignity.” And on Monday, January 15th, 2024 from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, families are invited to join the MLK Volunteer Festival 2024: Take Action to Support Our Beloved Community. This special event will feature hands-on activities for volunteers to address needs within the areas of Homelessness, Education Equity, Food Insecurity, and Economic Opportunity. Details and registration information are available online.
39th Annual Kingdom Day Parade
Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
The 39th Annual Kingdom Day Parade is scheduled for Monday, January 15th, 2024 at 11:00 am. This year, the parade’s theme is “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop, Going to the Promised Land.” The parade is a televised event and is described as “the world’s largest and longest running life celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King.” The parade features marching bands, community groups, local politicians, and more. A map of the parade route is available online.
Santa Monica Symphony: Annual MLK Holiday Concert
SGI-USA World Peace Ikeda Auditorium
525 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401
The Santa Monica Symphony is performing their Annual MLK Holiday Concert on Saturday, January 13th from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with this special annual concert. The concert is free, but pre-registration is required due to limited seating.
2024 City of West Hollywood Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
West Hollywood Elementary School
970 N. Hammond St., West Hollywood, CA 90069
The 2024 City of West Hollywood Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service is happening on Saturday, January 13th from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. “Volunteers are needed to help perform various landscaping, clean-up, painting, and other beautifying tasks at the school.” Register online.
Free Entrance Day – National Park System
Multiple locations
To commemorate the Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. the National Park Service will waive entrance fees on Monday, January 15th. In addition, “it is also a day of service when thousands of volunteers participate in service projects at parks across the country.” You can check the website to find volunteer opportunities.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Breakfast
YMCA of Glendale
140 N. Louise St., Glendale, CA 91206
Glendale’s Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Breakfast is happening on Monday, January 15th from 9:00 am to 10:30 am. The special event “commemorates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., while bringing together members of the Glendale community who carry his message and work forward in the present.” This is a free event and open to all community members. Advance registration is required.
MLK Freedom and Unity Weekend
Oxnard PAL Teen Center
350 S. K Street, Oxnard, CA 93030
MLK Freedom and Unity Weekend is happening on Sunday, January 14th and Monday, January 15th. This two-day intergenerational event features a Youth Summit, Youth Networking Breakfast, and community basketball game. “These activities will help create bridges for young people in Ventura County to connect with local, state and national organizations, as well as with renowned organizers, artists, and influencers.” This is a free event, open to the public. Registration is available online.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration
Martin Luther King Jr. Park
1950 Lemon Ave., Long Beach, CA
The City of Long Beach invites families to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration happening on Saturday, January 13th, 2024. The festivities include a parade (starting at 10:00 am) as well as a celebration in the park. Enjoy live performances, a health and wellness area, a special youth area, food and merchandise vendors, and more. Details, including the parade route, are available online.
29th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Walk-A-Thon
Stratton Community Center
2008 MLK Blvd., Riverside, CA
The Riverside African American Historical Society is hosting the 29th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Walk-A-Thon on Monday, January 15th. This year’s event includes discussions, speeches, performances, and more. Check the website for more details as they become available. You may register online.
MLK Jr. Day of Service
White Point Nature Preserve
1600 W. Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro, CA 90731
Families are invited to come out to the White Point Nature Preserve on Monday, January 15th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm for MLK Jr. Day of Service. Participants will “help care for the White Point Native Plant Demonstration Garden by planting native shrubs, removing invasive weeds, watering native plants, grooming trails and more!” Sign up online.
38th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration
Oxnard Performing Arts Center (OPAC)
800 Hobson Way, Oxnard, CA 93030
Take a drive to Oxnard for the 38th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration happening on Monday, January 15th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. This year’s theme is “Empowerment Through Education: Paving the Path to Equity and Understanding.” Dr. Irene Pinkard is the keynote speaker. The program also includes musical selections performed by the MLK Celebration Choir, vendor exhibits, and refreshments. Tickets are available online.
City of West Hollywood MLK Day of Service 2024 – Virtual Donation Drive
In honor of Martin Luther King Day of Service, the City of West Hollywood and West Hollywood Elementary School are hosting a special virtual donation drive to help those experiencing homelessness. Families may make monetary donations and/or contribute gifts cards for new socks, blankets, sleeping bags, and other items. Details are available online.
Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Event
Duarte Performing Arts Center
1401 Highland Ave., Duarte, CA 91010
The City of Duarte is hosting their Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Event on Thursday, January 11th at 11:00 am. This special event features guest speakers, live performances, and the announcement of this year’s MLK Essay Contest winners.
Justice Sunday
Lancaster Performing Arts Center
750 W. Lancaster Blvd., Lancaster, CA 93534
Each year, the city of Lancaster honors Dr. King’s legacy on Justice Sunday. This year’s event is happening on Sunday, January 14th and features a festival including live entertainment, food vendors, artisans, community resource vendors, and more. There will also be a screening of Enticed: A Dream Deferred. Check the website for more details as they become available.
39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
SGI-USA World Peace Ikeda Auditorium
525 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401 and
Community Involvement Fair
Santa Monica Bay Women’s Club
1210 4th St., Santa Monica, CA
The 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration is happening on Monday, January 15th at 9:00 am. This year’s theme is “Stop the Hate, Start the Healing.” The event includes speakers, music, a brief theatrical performance, and more. Ms. Lisa Holder is the keynote speaker. After the Celebration, guests are invited to attend the Community Involvement Fair at 10:30 am where visitors will “have the opportunity to meet with representatives from a variety of nonprofit organizations, and enjoy light refreshments.”
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble, Irvine, CA
Visit Pretend City Children’s Museum on Monday, January 15th to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. There will be a special story time at 11:00 am and 2:30 pm. Plus, children will have the chance to “add your dream to our ‘I Have a Dream’ Wall.” Tickets are available online.
Annual MLK Day Parade & Extravaganza
The Annual MLK Day Parade & Extravaganza is scheduled for Monday, January 15th. The Parade starts at 1:00 pm and features bands, floats, classic cars, and special guests. The Extravaganza begins at 2:00 pm and features live performances, food, artisans, and more. Check the website for more information as it becomes available.
Lift Every Voice
Skirball Cultural Center
2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049
The Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a special performance, Lift Every Voice, on Saturday, January 13th at 7:00 pm. (Doors open at 6:00 pm.) ICYOLA is the “largest Black majority orchestra in the nation.” This performance will feature over one hundred musicians and choir singers raising their “instruments and voices in song to honor the memory of MLK’s commitment to delivering civil rights for Black America.” This is a free event; tickets may be reserved online.
Documenting a Movement: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Civil Rights
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
On Monday, January 15th at 7:30 pm, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King with “two films showcasing the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.” The short films “The March” and “The Bus” will be shown, and following the films will be a discussion regarding “the enduring importance of speaking truth to power through the documentation of political movements.” Tickets are available online.
To Listen in Honor of MLK
Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” Song
Many people may not know that musician Stevie Wonder worked tirelessly to help recognize Dr. King’s birthday as a national holiday. It was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. This upbeat song features lyrics written as a tribute to Dr. King.
To Watch to Celebrate MLK
Our Friend, Martin is “an adventure inspired by Martin Luther King, Jr.” This time-traveling adventure takes two middle school friends back in time to learn about, and meet, Dr. King. The film is a mix of documentary footage and animation and is recommended for children 8 and older.
For older kids, watch the 2014 film Selma featuring David Oyelowo as Dr. King. The movie is a powerful depiction of Dr. King’s “campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965.”
Books To Read in Honor of MLK
Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport. This popular picture book uses some of the words from Dr. King’s speeches to help tell his life story.
Who was Martin Luther King, Jr.? by Bonnie Bader. The popular “Who Was” series has a biography of Dr. King’s life, including his early years, his nonviolent protests, all accompanied by 80 black-and-white illustrations.
National Geographic Kids: Martin Luther King, Jr. by Kitson Jazynka. This book is often found in classroom libraries. In addition to text, the book features timetables, diagrams, sidebars all designed to keep readers interested and engaged.
The Story of Martin Luther King Jr: A Biography Book for New Readers by Christine Platt. This book features bold illustrations and tells the story of Dr. King’s life, explaining the steps he took to make his dream a reality.
A Picture Book of Martin Luther King Jr by David A. Adler. Many parents and teachers are familiar with this series of biographies which serve as great introductions to famous individuals throughout history.
Be A King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream and You by Carole Boston Weatherford. This book is written as a “dual narrative of the key moments of Dr. King’s life alongside a modern class as the students learn about him.”
I Have a Dream (Book and CD) by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Families can listen to Dr. King’s famous speech on an audio CD as they look at the book featuring realistic paintings.
Show Me History: Martin Luther King Jr.: Voice for Equality! by James Buckley Jr. This book, part of the Show Me History series, tells the story of Dr. King’s life as a graphic novel. Full-color illustrations may entice more reluctant readers.
Dear Martin by Nic Stone. A young African-American boy begins writing a journal, as a series of letters to Dr. King. What would Dr. King do? How would Dr. King handle this situation? This book serves as a wonderful conversation starter for older readers.
To Learn More About Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The King Center
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (also known as The King Center) was established in 1968 by Mrs. Coretta Scott King. The website has lots of information regarding days of special programming scheduled to commemorate The King Holiday Observance 2022. Virtual events begin on Monday, January 10th and continue through Monday, January 17th. In addition, the National Park Service offers resources to virtually explore the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta which you can access by clicking here.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, DC is a part of the National Mall and Memorial Parks. Online, you’ll find photos and videos related to the memorial as well as more facts about the design and construction of the Memorial.
Wendy Kennar is a mother, writer, and former teacher who has lived her entire life in the same Los Angeles zip code. You can read more from Wendy at her website WendyKennar.com where she writes about books, boys, and bodies (living with an invisible disability).
Disclaimer: MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.
