Jan. 15 is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a national holiday honoring and celebrating the life and legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year, the holiday falls on his birthday.
In Metro Detroit, there are many community events and activities occurring to commemorate the special day and further Dr. King’s legacy in the community.
Here are some events and activities to participate in this year:
UNITED WE WALK
West Bloomfield Hill’s annual event, “United We Walk,” is celebrating its 30th anniversary on Sunday, Jan. 14. This year’s theme is “The King in Me: We Walk in Unity, Equality, and Community,” and the event will include a keynote speaker, student and staff participation, and a community walk down Orchard Lake Road. The event is open to the public.
Event Details
Jan. 14, 2024
West Bloomfield Middle School
1 p.m.
MLK SERVICE DAY: A DAY ON, NOT A DAY OFF
Join the cities and school districts of Berkley, Clawson, and Royal Oak for their event “A Day On, Not a Day Off” on Monday, Jan. 15. The event will offer attendees the chance to participate in a Freedom Walk and complete volunteer activities, including donation sorting and blanket making.
Event Details
Jan. 15, 2024
Royal Oak Middle School
8:30 a.m.
ANNUAL DAY OF SERVICE IN HONOR OF MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
More than 1,000 people from all walks of life are expected to gather at Athens High School on Monday, Jan. 15, for the district’s annual Day of Service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event will begin with a free continental breakfast followed by a presentation delving into his life and legacy. Inside the school, attendees can make cards and blankets for charities and assemble items for Grace Centers of Hope.
Event Details
Jan. 15, 2024
Athens High School
8 a.m.
21ST ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY RALLY AND MARCH
The 21st Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Rally and March will take place in Downtown Detroit at St. Matthew’s and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church. This year’s theme, “For Jobs, Peace, and Justice While Protecting Water, Climate, and Communities, ” will be highlighted through speakers and artists from the Detroit area.
Event Details
Jan. 15, 2024
St. Matthew and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church
Noon
LET FREEDOM RING
Journey to the historic Fox Theatre for “Let Freedom Ring,” a free public event honoring several luminaries whose deeds have exemplified the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Several elected officials will share remarks, including Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, Sen. Gary Peters, Congresswomen Debbie Dingell, and Rashida Talib. Tickets are required but are free to the public.
Event Details
Jan. 15, 2024
Fox Theatre
5 p.m.
CELEBRATING MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.: HENRY FORD MUSEUM OF AMERICAN INNOVATION
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by offering three days of special programming, performances, and special tours and screenings in Giant Screen Experience. Admission and parking to the museum will also be free on the holiday.
Event Details
Jan. 13-15, 2024
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY AT THE WRIGHT
Join the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for its annual event commemorating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s theme is “Living the Dream: It Starts with Me!” The event will kick off with breakfast and include admission to the museum’s exhibitions and special programming. Tickets are required.
Event Details
Jan. 15, 2024
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
8 a.m.
$15 for adults (children and youth 17 and under are free)
39TH ANNUAL SOUTHFIELD MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. PEACE WALK CELEBRATION
Head to the City of Southfield for its 39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Peace Walk Celebration on Monday, Jan. 15. This year’s theme is “Peace and Justice for the Next Generation.” The event will include a peace walk and special programming, including a keynote speaker, live music, and a free international taste fest.
Event Details
Jan. 15, 2024
9 a.m.