Throughout his life, Martin Luther King Jr. championed civil and human rights across the country, including here in D.C. where he delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
One of the most fitting ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day is by celebrating it as a day on, not off. Whether you want to connect with your community, help a neighbor or support local artists, we have plenty of ideas below.
Volunteering
For the long weekend and any time of year, you can find lots of ways to give back.
Montgomery County and Arlington County planned days of service with volunteer opportunities. Donate or volunteer for a blanket and toiletry drive. Make cat toys in Alexandria. Clean up Oxon Run Park, Pope Branch Park or Kenilworth Park and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.
You can also check with United Way or websites like VolunteerMatch and JustServe any time of year.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day in D.C.
MLK Day Poetry Slam
Sat., Jan. 17, 8 p.m., Busboys and Poets Anacostia, $7.56
The spoken word showcase and poetry slam comes with a $100 prize, but everyone is on stage to “fight for social change,” organizers said.
Peace Walk and Parade
Mon., Jan. 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Anacostia, free but registration required
The 21st annual Peace Walk and Parade is back outdoors this year. The event begins with a rally at 9:30 a.m., followed by a walk through Anacostia.
You’ll also find opportunities to volunteer, as well as a health and wellness fair.
Let Freedom Ring
Mon., Jan. 19, 6 p.m., Howard Theater, free
Common headlines this annual musical tribute to King, taking the stage with Rayshun Lamarr, Nova Payton and emcee Tamika Smith. The concert will be held at the Howard Theatre this year after more than two decades at The Kennedy Center, NPR reports.
The event is free, but tickets are required. Keep an eye on this page for ticket drops!
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial ranger talks
Select dates at 2 p.m., National Mall
Meet a ranger at the MLK Memorial to learn about its history and art. These talks are free and don’t require registration. However, check the website before you go. Sometimes, programs get canceled because of bad weather.
MLK Day in Maryland
Say It Loud: A Celebration of the Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Sat., Jan. 17, BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown, most events free
Come together in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a full day of art and activism, including live music and movie screenings.
Free activities include free concerts, DJ sets and screenings of John Lewis documentary “Good Trouble” plus Lauryn Hill and Bob Marley concert films. Visit the record fair and artisans market and a talk by Nigerian artist VILLAGER.
Two magnetic tribute shows will close out the night: The Jogo Project’s paying homage to Parliament Funkadelic ($25 or pay what you can) and Pink Palish will perform hits from the divas of R&B ($25).
MLK Day in Northern Virginia
Reston MLK Birthday Celebration
Jan. 17-19
Community service projects, the Reston Community Orchestra’s annual tribute to King and a celebration for youth are among the Virginia community’s plans to observe MLK Day.
Arlington MLK Tribute
Sun., Jan. 18 from 5-6:30 p.m., Wakefield High School, free
This year’s production — “Dreams, Faith, and Justice in Action” — showcases local talent including dancers, musicians and orators.
Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day March for Unity and Freedom, and Celebration
Mon., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Falls Church, free
The Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation’s event comes together under the theme, “Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way.” Start the day with sign-making and a march, followed by a complimentary lunch and a social justice program. Registration is requested, but walk-ins are welcome.
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