Between live performances, community discussions and special screenings, organizations across the city are hosting many free events that honor and celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Most events are free, but some require registration.
When: Jan. 14, 6 p.m.
Where: Bowie Center for Performing Arts, Bowie, Maryland
The musical celebration honoring King will feature the Howard Gospel Choir and the Bowie High School Choral Program. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for students, $15 for adults and $10 for those 65 and over.
When: Jan. 15, 10:30 a.m.
Where: Woodbridge Neighborhood Library, Washington D.C.
Children aged 2 to 12 are encouraged to come with their families to learn about King at this day-long celebration. A screening of the film “Our Friend, Martin” will begin at 10:30 a.m. followed by a reading of “Separate Is Never Equal” by author Duncan Tonatiuh at 2:30 p.m.
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Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
When: Jan. 15, Noon
Where: 2500 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE, Washington, D.C.
The 37th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade will begin on Good Hope Road near the Anacostia Park entrance and continue along Martin Luther King Avenue to Barry Farm Recreation Center. The celebration of King’s legacy will feature several high school marching bands including Ballou High School, Dunbar High School and Anacostia High School.
Before the parade, there is a peace walk at 10 a.m. The two-mile walk starts at the same location as the parade.
King: A Filmed Record...Montogmery to Memphis
When: Jan. 15, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Oprah Winfrey Theater, National African American History and Culture Museum
Constructed from a wealth of archival footage, the museum presents a special screening of the documentary that follows King from 1955 and 1968. From his speeches, arrests and protests, the film follows his rise from regional activist to leader of the Civil Rights Movement. The event is free with registration. It is recommended to arrive early. Registration does not guarantee a seat.
From India With Love Screening
When: Jan. 15, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Black Box Theater, Anacostia Arts Center
The Washington D.C. Police Foundation and Metropolitan Police Department invite you to a free screening of “From India With Love.” The film is about six Americans who are victims of violence from different backgrounds who embarked on a journey to India in 2016. The documentary was inspired by a King’s similar journey to India in 1959.
Awake and in Motion: Celebrating 50 Years of MLK
When: Jan 15, 3:45 p.m.
Where: Washington National Cathedral
King’s final Sunday sermon was preached at the National Cathedral 50 years ago. The special service will have excerpts of Kings’ final sermon through song, prayer and dance. The celebration will feature the Howard University Choir and the Washington National Cathedral house band. Doors will open at 3:30 p.m.
When: Jan. 15, 6 p.m.
Where: The Kennedy Center for Performing Arts
The Kennedy Center and Georgetown University will celebrate the legacy of King through a musical tribute featuring Vanessa Williams and the Let Freedom Ring Choir.
Tickets will be distributed at 4:30 p.m. and seating will begin at 5:15 p.m. You can only get two tickets per person.
Rockville’s 45th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration
When: Jan. 15, 11 a.m.
Where: Richard Montgomery High School, Rockville, Maryland
This free event will include performances and keynote speaker Dr. Marcia Chatelain. The program will honor a Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Award recipient.
Tamika D. Mallory: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration and Luncheon
When: Jan. 15, noon
Where: CenterStage at Reston Community Center
The luncheon will feature a keynote address from co-chair of the 2017 Women’s March on Washington Tamika D. Mallory. Ticket prices vary from $5 to $10.
