Communities across Minnesota will mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day with events, service projects, and gatherings throughout MLK Week. The civil rights legacy and disability rights work share common goals, including dignity, equal access, and full participation. MCD honors this legacy and its importance to Minnesotans with disabilities.
This year is a milestone. Minnesota is marking the 40th anniversary of the state’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday celebration, one of the longest-running and largest in the nation.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, visit the State of Minnesota’s MLK Jr. Day 2026 schedule to find events and participation options across the state. We encourage Minnesotans with disabilities, families, and allies to take part in ways that fit their interests, access needs, and communities.
State of Minnesota MLK Week Events
Highlights from the state’s series of events:
- Historical Landmark Tour: A Journey Through Civil Rights (Thursday, January 15, 2026): Discover civil rights sites that shaped Minnesota’s journey toward justice and collective action.
- Youth Summit: Solidarity and STEM for Systems Change (Friday, January 16, 2026): Middle and high school students gather at the Science Museum of Minnesota to explore leadership, innovation, and systems change.
- State Career Fair: Building Futures in Service (Saturday, January 17, 2026): Hosted at St. Paul College, this event connects job seekers with career and employment resources, reflecting Dr. King’s belief in meaningful work.
- Community March: Uniting Across Difference (Sunday, January 18, 2026): Faith communities and neighbors walk together from the Minnesota History Center to the State Capitol.
- MLK Holiday Celebration (Monday, January 19, 2026, Ordway Center for Performing Arts in St. Paul): This event includes storytelling, artistic performances, and community honors.
Twin Cities Highlights on MLK Day
If you are looking for major Twin Cities gatherings on MLK Day, two flagship events are:
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Breakfast (Minneapolis): The 36th annual Holiday Breakfast takes place on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Minneapolis Convention Center. This long-standing tradition brings community members together for a morning of reflection, inspiration, and fellowship. This year’s keynote speaker is award-winning journalist Soledad O’Brien.
MLK Black Youth Talent Showcase (Minneapolis): Also on Monday, January 19, the Capri Theater hosts the 6th Annual MLK Black Youth Talent Showcase, celebrating the creativity and leadership of young Black artists through performances and community support.
Community Celebrations Across Minnesota
These are a few examples of community events happening across Minnesota, among many others:
- Powderhorn Park MLK Day Celebration (Minneapolis): The 28th annual event brings the community together with art, youth performances, and a free community lunch at Powderhorn Park.
- “We Have a Dream” Celebration (Rochester): Organized by the NAACP and community partners, this morning event at the Mayo Civic Center includes breakfast, program reflections, and a freedom rally and march.
- MLK Celebration at Ridgewater College (Willmar): A “Day of Unity” event featuring inspiring talks, performances, and fellowship in the Willmar Lakes Area.
- MLK Community Celebration (St. Cloud): The 14th annual celebration at the River’s Edge Convention Center highlights compassion, community action, and hope.