NATIONAL DAYHISTORY & MILITARY

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

This day is a time to reflect on the ongoing journey for civil rights and equality in America.

JAN19

Monday, January 19Third Monday in January

Roots: Established as a federal holiday in 1983, first observed in 1986
Vibe: A day of reflection, service, and community engagement
Also on Jan 19: Imagination Day · Popcorn Day · World Quark Day
Hashtag: #MartinLutherKingJrDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Read his speeches

Read one of his speeches aloud and talk about it with your family.

WITH FRIENDS

Volunteer as a group

Spend the day serving a local cause together in the spirit of service.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Join a service project

Organize or join a community service project with your team.

Plan ahead

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday in January. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Jan 19this year

2027Mon, Jan 18

2028Mon, Jan 17

2029Mon, Jan 15

2030Mon, Jan 21

2031Mon, Jan 20

2032Mon, Jan 19

2033Mon, Jan 17

2034Mon, Jan 16

2035Mon, Jan 15

2036Mon, Jan 21

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Fast facts

1983Signed into law by President Reagan on November 2, 1983.

2000All 50 states officially observed the holiday by 2000

The story

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed on the third Monday of January, celebrates the life and achievements of Dr. King, a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement. Born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia, King advocated for nonviolent resistance to combat racial injustice. His efforts culminated in landmark events, including the 1963 March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech.

Read the full story

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law, making Martin Luther King Jr. Day a federal holiday. The first official observance took place on January 20, 1986, and it was not until 2000 that all 50 states recognized the day. Today, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of community service.

Many communities host events on this day, ranging from parades to educational programs. Schools often incorporate lessons about Dr. King’s teachings, inspiring students to engage in discussions about justice and equality. This celebration emphasizes a commitment to service and reflection on the progress made and the challenges that remain.

Dr. King's legacy extends beyond American borders, inspiring movements for civil rights and social justice worldwide. His philosophy of nonviolent protest has influenced leaders and movements across the globe. As we observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we are reminded of the collective responsibility to continue advocating for a more just and equitable society.

Did you know?

First Observance

The first Martin Luther King Jr. Day was observed on January 20, 1986.

Reagan's Signature

President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law on November 2, 1983.

Service Day Importance

In 1994, Congress designated the holiday as a national day of service.

International Recognition

Countries around the world honor Dr. King’s legacy through various events.

Federal Holiday

MLK Day is one of only three federal holidays honoring an individual.

Voting Rights

Dr. King's activism was instrumental in the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Legacy Projects

Many communities engage in service projects to honor King's commitment to social justice.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesThe day is a federal holiday, celebrated nationwide with events and community service.
GBUnited KingdomThough not a national holiday, many commemorate Dr. King's legacy through educational programs.
CACanadaIn Canada, discussions about civil rights often reference Dr. King's impact on social justice movements.
BRBrazilDr. King's teachings have inspired social movements in Brazil advocating for racial equality.
ZASouth AfricaNelson Mandela cited Dr. King as a major influence in his struggle against apartheid.
INIndiaMahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence inspired Dr. King’s approach to civil rights in America.