Martin Luther King, Jr. Day events and activities honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2026 is Monday, January 19. In addition to virtual celebrations, we’ve also included book suggestions, a craft idea and a link to an educational movie.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities.
We hope that you enjoy these ideas to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this year.
Read a book together
With the help of our Meet a Mom feature, Elizabeth of Raising Readers to Become Leaders – she has rounded up a few of her favorite book recommendations to learn more about the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. These can be found at our local libraries or bookstores, such as Schuler Books in Okemos.
Watch a film
This short movie is a terrific resource in educating children about MLK.
Make a craft
Here is a craft idea from No Time for Flash Cards to help get kids thinking and talking about how they can make a difference in the world – no matter how big or small!
Local shopping and supporting Black Owned Businesses
Local shopping and supporting Black Owned Businesses around the Greater Lansing area. Find the GLAM list HERE
Learn more about the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Commission of Mid-Michigan
he Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Commission of Mid-Michigan’s signature event is the annual MLK Day of Celebration; which has become the place to be on Dr. King’s Holiday because of the caliber of speakers and entertainers the Commission attracts.The Commission has been honored to have Congressman Elijah E. Cummings; U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, Freedom Riders Diane Nash, and Henry “Hank” Thomas; Myrlie Evers Williams; and U.S. first elected African American Governor Douglas Wilder as keynote speakers; and gospel giants Tamela Mann, CeCe Winans and Donnie McClurkin as our musical entertainment. The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Commission of Mid Michigan is a non-profit, elected body comprised of volunteer representatives dedicated to preserving the legacy and teachings of Dr. King by supporting community agencies, and empowering youth to achieve educational goals.
**photo credit: City of East Lansing website
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I have a dream graphic obtained from Pinterest
