The third Monday of January marks the historical date that we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. On Jan. 19 this year, the national holiday poses an opportunity to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Listed below are some unique events and activities to note in Metro Detroit this month as Martin Luther King Jr. Day quickly approaches.
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Henry Ford
The Henry Ford Museum invites the community to participate in unique activities in honor of King, such as a play, free screening, live performance, and more. Attend these all-day activities by RSVPing for free.
Jan. 17-19, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day at The Wright
The Charles H. Wright Museum will host its annual prayer breakfast and program featuring Ambassador Attallah Shabazz, daughter of Malcom X and Dr. Betty Shabazz.
Jan. 19, 2026 | 8 a.m.
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
41st Annual Southfield Martin Luther King Peace Walk Celebration
The City of Southfield will commemorate King with keynote speaker Mayor Ken Siver. Following their peaceful march, Mayor Siver will address the audience based on the theme “Crafting the Dream in a Peaceful and Sustainable World Rooted in Dignity, Democracy, and Nonviolence.”
Jan. 19, 2026 | 9 a.m.
Hope United Methodist Church
MLK Day Celebration
Join the Detroit Historical Museum for “A Dream Rooted in Faith: The Legacy of the Black Church in Detroit During the Civil War.” The day will be filled with reflection through activities, a presentation, and songs celebrating the life of King. Registration is free.
Jan. 19, 2026 | 10 a.m.
Detroit Historical Museum
23rd MLK Day Rally
The Detroit MLK Day Committee will commune at St. Matthew’s and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church for a rally in honor of the life of King.
Jan. 19, 2026 | Noon
St. Matthew’s and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church
KING MLK Birthday Celebration: Let Freedom Ring
At the FOX Theatre, the Rainbow PUSH Organization will celebrate the life of King by honoring leaders in the Detroit Region. The Brazeal Dennard Chorale with the Marin Luther King Jr. High School Fine Arts Department will also perform. This is a free, public event.
Jan. 19, 2026 | 4 p.m.
FOX Theatre
MLK Events at the Library
This year, the Detroit Public Library is hosting events all month long, so adults, families, and children can recognize the legacy of King. Each branch will hold multiple free events that can be found on the library’s website.
January 2026
Detroit Public Library