Looking to for things to do for the three day weekend? Don’t miss the opportunity to plan your trip to DC. Whether you’d like to learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. or take part in activities celebrating and honoring MLK, this ideas will have you covered for activities to do during the long weekend and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Plan Your Trip for MLK Weekend in DC
Visit MLK Memorial
Experience the profound historical significance by including a visit to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in your MLK weekend itinerary in Washington, DC. Situated in the downtown area, this memorial serves as a homage to the enduring legacy of Dr. King and the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice. As a distinguished leader in the modern civil rights movement, Dr. King advocated for racial equality, the working class, and oppressed communities globally. The memorial offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere, providing an opportunity for thoughtful reflection on the challenges and triumphs of the past. It stands as an essential destination for those wishing to pay respects to Dr. King’s impactful contributions to the ongoing pursuit of civil rights.
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial honors the sixteenth president of the United States Abraham Lincoln who guided the country through the Civil War and contributed to the freedom of over four million enslaved people. This grand memorial is where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I Have A Dream Speech” with an inscription on the stairs depicting this. Inside of the memorial chamber sits a statue of Abraham Lincoln with inscriptions from Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address and Gettysburg Address surrounding him on the north and south walls. The memorial is definitely a sight to behold in person.
MLK Peace Walk, Parade, and Fair
Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. on Jan 15, 2024 by participating in a Peace Walk and Parade along Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave organized by the MLK Holiday DC Committee. The commemorative day kicks off with a Peace Rally at 9 am, followed by the Peace Walk departing from Shepherd Park at 10:45 am. The Parade officially begins at 11 am at St. Elizabeth’s East, accompanied by a Health and Community Fair situated in the parking lot at 2006 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE. Read more about the Peace Walk and Parade here.
The People’s Holiday: The Many Dreams of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Exploring the National Museum of African American History & Culture is always enlightening, and it holds a special resonance on MLK Weekend. On Monday January 15 from 11am to 4pm, there are exclusive activities to honor MLK, including performances by student artists from the Cinematic Arts & Media Production Department at Duke Ellington School of the Arts. These original works creatively reimagine the life and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Read more about the event on the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s website here.
MLK at the Library in Libraries around the DC area
Numerous public libraries are organizing events and activities inspired by MLK for attendees of all ages. From crafts and story times to open mic poetry and take-home reading challenges, there’s something for everyone. Some of these events include Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library’s “The Rebellious Life of Rosa Parks” film screening and panel event on January 14 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm and “It Starts With Me! A Beyond the Book Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King” event on January 15 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm with musical performers, spoken word artists and activities. You can access details about these events on the DC Public Library website’s Celebrating MLK Week page here.
American Visionary Art Museum MLK Dare to Dream Day
Commemorate the life and enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the remarkable American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, MD from 10:00am – 5:00pm on January 15. In addition to captivating exhibits, partake in open mic sessions, art creation, musical performances, dance, and other engaging activities. The museum will also extend its hours on this Monday of remembrance and will be offering free admission to all the festivities. Make sure to read more and RSVP for the celebration here.
National Parks
On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, national parks offer a fee-free day, granting free entry to locations that typically require admission. Seize the opportunity for complimentary access. Discover national parks in the vicinity and beyond on the National Park Service webpage dedicated to finding a national park nearby here.
Tour the Monuments and Memorials
Embark on a unique and memorable adventure MLK weekend with a golf cart tour of the iconic monuments and memorials in Washington, DC. Pay homage to Dr. King’s enduring legacy by visiting significant sites that honor his contributions like the iconic MLK memorial. On your journey, you’ll also be able to see the Lincoln Memorial, where Dr. King delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech. Cruise by other remarkable landmarks like the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building, taking in the rich history and significance of each with time to ask questions and take photos. Guided golf cart tours offer a convenient and insightful way to explore the heart of the nation’s capital during this special weekend. Book your tour today!
