Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebrations in Houston
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a winter holiday and an excuse to take the day off of school. The day’s focus is reflection, learning, and community involvement. Houston, our city, is rich in diversity. This inspires a legacy that resonates deeply of justice and equality.
A Day Dedicated to Service and Remembrance
Houstonians are strong. They fallback into service as a choice when helping each other and to honor legacies such as, Dr. King’s. Throughout the city, organizations host events. Many of these are service oriented. All of them are celebrations. These activities embody the spirit of Dr. King’s call to “love thy neighbor.” Also, they create a tangible impact on our community.
Educational Opportunities for Children of All Ages
Dr. King’s message of peace and equality is timeless. Similarly, its uplifting focus on hope and growth is perfect to share with children of all ages. Here are some ways to engage your kids in learning about his legacy:
Celebrate with Community
The best way to explore such a profound message is through celebrations and community. Join one of the many celebrations across town:
2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebrations
1/18 27th Annual Martin Luther King Day Celebration at the Children’s Museum Houston (Museum District)
1/18 Martin Luther King Day Jr. Celebration at Fort Bend Discovery Center
1/19 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration (The Woodlands)
1/20 MLK Parade & Festival (Downtown)
1/20 MLK Festival and Children’s Day of Service (Downtown)
1/20 MLK Grande Parade (Midtown)
1/20 WHILE YOU WERE DREAMING – MLK Day Interactive Creative Session with beSocial (Memorial)
1/20 MHAA MLK Day of Service at the Houston Food Bank
1/20 MLK Day of Service at the YMCA (Citywide)
Read books about Dr. King:
There are many wonderful children’s books that tell the story of Dr. King in an age-appropriate way.
Pre-K to Early Elementary
Upper Elementary through Middle Grades
Upper Grades and Up
Watch documentaries and movies
Films offer a powerful glimpse into the Civil Rights Movement and the challenges that Dr. King and his fellow activists faced. Here are a few of our favorites:
Pre-K to Early Elementary
- Melody 1963: An American Girl Story
- March On! The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World
- Our Friend, Martin
- Ruby Bridges
Upper Elementary through Middle Grades
- Hairspray
- Selma, Lord, Selma
- Remember the Titans
- The Watsons Go to Birmingham
- We Are The Dream: The Kids of the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest
Upper Grades and Up
Visit historical sites:
Learn about the history of the Civil Rights Movement in Houston firsthand. Explore Houston’s rich history and take your kids to sites such as:
Houston Museum of African American Culture: This museum offers a powerful and moving exploration of African American history and culture. It features exhibits on everything from the transatlantic slave trade to the Civil Rights Movement.
Fourth Ward Historic District: This historic district is home to many buildings that are important to Black history in Houston, including Houston Negro Hospital (now Riverside General Hospital), Yates High School (the second Black high school in Houston), and Houston Colored Junior College (the antecedent of Texas Southern University).
Antioch Missionary Baptist Church: This church was founded in 1866 and is one of the oldest Black churches in Houston. It played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement and is still a vibrant part of the community today.
Project Row Houses: A community platform that enriches lives through art with an emphasis on cultural identity and its impact on the urban landscape.
Talk, Talk, Talk
Talk to your kids about what Dr. King stood for and why his message is still important today. This conversation is a great opportunity to open up a dialogue about race, justice, and equality.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and equality. By honoring Dr. King’s legacy and taking action in our own lives, we can help to create a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.
