Atlanta celebrates its heritage
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday of January each year, celebrating the achievements of African-Americans throughout history as an important part of American history. From a day of service to lectures, exhibits, concerts and art, there are a number of ways to observe MLK Day in Atlanta. Begin with honoring Dr. King’s legacy, visiting historic landmarks and celebrating the lives and efforts of many Atlantans and civil rights icons that influenced our country’s progression.
As the heart of the civil rights movement, Atlanta’s history, heritage and role in the civil rights movement gives visitors and Atlantans a number of places to celebrate the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday throughout the city and much further beyond the beginning of the year.
Things to do for MLK Day in Atlanta

King Holiday Observance
Each year, The King Center observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a 10-day celebration of the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Events range from performance art to lectures and charitable workshops.

Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Commemorative Service
The church service is held on the Federal Holiday at Ebenezer Baptist Church located near The King Center. On this day The King Center encourages the world to engage in volunteer service in tribute to the work and life of Dr. King and other local Atlanta civil rights activists.

Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Day of Service
Hands On Atlanta mobilizes more than 3,000 volunteers in service to local communities, schools and nonprofits at the as part of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. For volunteering opportunities, visit their website here.
1/18/21
Free Admission on MLK Day @ Atlanta History Center
On the third Monday in January, people across the nation come together in the spirit…
Atlanta History Center
1/18/21
MLK Day Celebration @ Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Join Children’s Museum of Atlanta, in collaboration with the National Center for Civil and Human…
Children’s Museum of Atlanta
1/18/21
Virtual MLK Day Celebration
On Monday, January 18, 2021, Atlanta History Center will share a variety of virtual offerings…
Online
1/11/21
2021 King Holiday Observence
This year’s theme is “The Urgency of Creating The Beloved Community”. The 2021 event will…
Online
1/18/21
MLK Day 5k Drum Run
Gathering the diverse groups in our beloved community to celebrate Martin Luther King Day in…
Stone Mountain Park
1/16/21
“Love Will See You Through” A Virtual Book Reading
Join the niece of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. Angela Farris Watkins,…
Online
1/17/21
Virtual Sunday Supper with Hands on Atlanta
2020 has seen a global pandemic, divisive presidential election, growing Black Lives Matter movement, staggering…
Online
1/18/21
MLK Day of Service with Hands On Atlanta
Live Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community by serving the community. For the 2021…
Multiple Locations
1/18/21
MLK Park day at Martin Luther King, Jr. NHP
In honor of the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., National Park Service sites will…
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
1/18/21
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Virtual Author Talk
Join us for a special virtual panel discussion with authors Stephen Kendrick and Paul Kendrick…
Online
1/18/21
School’s Out Camp: Martin Luther King Day
When school is out, Camp is in! We are here to engage and excite your…
Zoo Atlanta
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