Celebrating MLK Day
Photo by iStock January 17, 2025
Ways to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. throughout Delaware
Monday, Jan. 20, isn't just a day off school and work — it's an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
While the University of Delaware offices are closed, Winter Session classes are suspended, and many UD students are home for winter break, several events are scheduled around the state to honor the life of Dr. King.
Attend a day of service
Who: Delaware Art Museum.
What: A morning of reflection, education and action in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.
When: Monday, Jan. 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Delaware Art Museum (2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, DE)
How much: Free.
Know this: The event will include musical performances, a school supply drive, a grocery giveaway, free tours and more.
More info: Registration is required. Learn more and register online.
Clean and march
Who: West Side Grows Together.
What: Join West Side Grows Together for the 13th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Clean Up, Peace March, and Celebration — a day of service and demonstration of peace, community strength and call to action.
When: Monday, Jan. 20, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Jefferson Street Center (1801 Jefferson St. Wilmington, DE)
How much: Free.
Know this: Attendees will also have the opportunity to take advantage of community resources, live music, free food, opportunities for further advocacy, family friendly activities and a small business marketplace.
More info: More information and registration details can be found online.
Attend a musical tribute
Who: Elevate Vocal Arts.
What: Elevation, Delaware’s only professional vocal ensemble, will celebrate the legacy of Dr. King with a special musical tribute.
When: Sunday, Jan. 19, 3 p.m.
Where: Mt. Salem United Methodist Church (2629 West 19th St. Wilmington, DE)
How much: Free.
Know this: Registration is required.
Attend an interfaith breakfast
Who: Delaware Interfaith Council.
What: Join Governor-elect Matt Meyer and religious leaders from across Delaware for a special event dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
When: Monday, Jan. 20, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Where: The Parlors within the Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center at Delaware State University (1200 North Dupont Hwy. Dover, DE)
How much: Free.
More info: Register online.
Donate a winter coat
Who: Wilmington University.
What: A winter coat drive in honor of MLK Day.
When: Now through Jan. 20.
Where: Various Wilmington University locations.
Know this: Adult coats should be new or gently used. Children’s coats, hats, scarves and gloves should be new only.
More info: Details can be found on Wilmington University’s events calendar.
Attend a day of service
Who: One Village Alliance.
What: MLK Day of Service.
When: Monday, Jan. 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: One Village Alliance, The Freedom Center (31 West 31st St. Wilmington, DE)
How much: Free.
Know this: Service projects include painting classrooms, building an outdoor wellness space, organizing a garage and clothing closet, outreach and more.
More info: Register online.
Attend a breakfast and volunteer
Who: Delaware State Bar Association.
What: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast and Statewide Day of Service.
When: Monday, Jan. 20.
Where: Chase Center on the Riverfront (815 Justison St. Wilmington, DE)
How much: Breakfast is $45.
Know this: The breakfast will include a keynote by Eddie Glaude, Jr., an author, political commentator, public intellectual and educator who examines the complex dynamics of the American experience. Community members may register to attend the breakfast or to assist in a number of service projects.
More info: More information and registration can be found on DSBA’s website.
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