MLK Jr. Day 2026
Starting Time
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Date
19 January 2026
Location
Ordway Center for Performing Arts
Directions/Parking
Honoring 40 Years of MLK Legacy
The 40th anniversary of Minnesota’s Martin Luther King Jr. legacy marked a powerful and memorable milestone. Across a series of events, community members, leaders, artists, and partners came together to honor Dr. King’s enduring vision of justice, equity, and beloved community.
While the journey required thoughtful pivots along the way, each moment reflected resilience, creativity, and deep commitment. Despite challenges, every gathering was meaningful and impactful—culminating in a virtual rally that was both inspiring and affirming, and setting the stage for continued engagement through a postponed in-person event still to come.
These moments reminded us that the MLK legacy is not confined to a single day or format; it lives through our collective ability to adapt, lead with purpose, and stay rooted in community.
Below is the recorded livestream from the anniversary programming. We invite you to watch, reflect, and share widely with those who were unable to join us live. This legacy deserves to be revisited—again and again.
Thank you!!
Watch MLK Day 2026:
English Spanish Hmong Somali
The Burrage Effect Podcast
Check out The Burrage Effect Podcast, hosted by Dr. Stephanie Burrage, featuring Ashley Oolman. Ashley reminds us of the power of MLK Jr.’s 40th Anniversary Echoes of Unity. Together, they explore what unity requires of us, how leaders move beyond symbolism to action, and what it means to lead in a way that ignites “echoes.”
Wednesday, January 14th, 2026
Gathering for Service Day
Thursday, January 15th, 2026, 10am - 2pm
Historical Landmark Tour: A Journey Through Civil Rights
Friday, January 16th, 2026, 10am - 2pm
Youth Summit: Solidarity & STEM for Systems Change
Saturday, January 17th, 2026, 10am - 2pm
State Career Fair: Building Futures in Service
Sunday, January 18th, 2026, 1pm - 4pm
Community March: Uniting Across Difference
Monday, January 19th, 2026, 10am - 12pm
MLK Holiday Celebration
Sponsored/in partnership by:
MTC ride for Free
Avoid traffic and Ride on Us

The Martin Luther King Jr. Council proudly celebrate our Change Maker Award recipients.
The Change Maker Awards honor extraordinary leaders who drive meaningful progress and elevate communities through bold vision and dedicated services. We congratulate this year’s awardees for their outstanding leadership and lasting impact.
Marcus Carpenter
Fourth-generation Farmer and Founder of Route1MN
Georgia Fort
Independent Journalist, Filmmaker, and Founder, BLCK Press
Brother Shane Price
Co-Founder/Director, The Power of People Leadership Institute
Chanda Smith Baker
President & CEO, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
Mai Thor
Chief Program Officer, The Arc Minnesota
Xavier Vazquez
Executive Director, Centro Tyrone Guzman