Since 1986, every third Monday of January has been observed as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, which people from all over celebrate the life and achievements of the influential civil rights movement leader.
Every year, Austin hosts various events that celebrate the revolutionary leader and his achievements. Honor one of this century's most influential leaders and check out one of these MLK Day events in Austin.
MLK Community March and Festival
The MLK Community March and Festival are organized by the Austin Area Heritage Council. The march beings with an influential speech in front of the MLK statue on the The University of Texas and continues all the way to the festival at Huston-Tillotson University where fun activities will be hosted. The festival consists of a variety of vendors and local musicians including Funk Mob Reunion, Tameca Jones, Pat G, and Bavu Blakes.
The celebration also hosts events that honor the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. including an MLK Oratory competition, an MLK Youth Legacy Scholarship Reception, and The MLK Day of Service.
Along with the march, festival, and other events, this MLK Day celebration also encourages its attendees to donate food to the Central Texas Food Bank. Celebrate freedom and diversity in Austin by checking out the MLK March and Festival.
A Celebration of the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Join University Presbyterian Church to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King. Speakers include Dr. Ted Wardlaw, President, Austin Theological Seminary, and students from the Gus Garcia Young Men's Leadership Accademy. There will be a reception to follow in the UPC Fellowship Hall.
Free Admission at the LBJ Presidential Library on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day*
Built in 1971, the LBJ library honors the former president and his achievements while in office. This MLK Day, the LBJ Library is waving all admission costs to visit the museum located inside.
The museum hosts a permanent exhibit that highlights President Johnson's role in the fight for the Civil Rights Movement in which Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a driving force. Take advantage of the free admission this MLK Day and visit the LBJ Library to learn something new about the Civil Rights Movement.
*This event will occur if the government shutdown ends before Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at the San Marcos Public Library
Want to celebrate MLK Day but don't feel like getting into Downtown Austin traffic? Just a few miles outside of Austin, the Dunbar Heritage Association will be hosting a variety of MLK-related educational activities in San Marcos.
This family-friendly event consists of a special storytime, arts and crafts, and many more educational activities. Don't miss this free opportunity for you and your family to learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in a fun way.
MLK Day of Service at Eastside Preserve
Looking to give back to your community this MLK Day? Join the Texas Land Conservancy and many other volunteers as they clean up and remove invasive species in the Eastside preserve in San Marcos.
By cleaning this preserve, you're making it a better environment for the surrounding community to enjoy for years to come. So put on your gloves, lace up some boots, and clean up your community this MLK Day!
Celebrate the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this month and visit one of these celebrations in Austin honoring a man who truly changed the world.
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Cover photo courtesy of Adobe Stock Images
