Indianapolis carries the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in its streets, parks, and public memory. Whether you're passing through the avenue bearing his name or visiting landmarks like Martin Luther King Jr. Park, home to the iconic sculpture commemorating Robert F. Kennedy’s announcement of King’s death, the city invites remembrance and reflection.
This January, residents have several opportunities to celebrate Dr. King’s life through service, education, and community. Here are some meaningful ways to participate:
IU’s MLK Day of Service
📅 Sunday, Jan. 18 • 🕐 1:30–4 p.m.
📍 301 University Blvd., Second Floor
🎟️ Free with registration
Hear from community leaders, including speakers from VOICES Corp. and Flanner House, while enjoying lunch and engaging in a community discussion on Black youth empowerment and emotional wellness.
Indiana Historical Society – Free Admission
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕚 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
📍 450 W. Ohio St.
🎟️ Free entry; optional ticket reservation
Celebrate with arts and crafts, storytelling for kids, and donation drives for veterans. Complimentary parking is available nearby, making this an accessible family-friendly stop.
Free Entry at Newfields
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕙 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
📍 4000 Michigan Road
🎟️ Admission is free
Spend the day surrounded by art, live music, and cultural programming. Visitors can also participate in lectures and support local outreach by bringing donations of food or socks for local service programs.
Youth Day of Service at Madam Walker Legacy Center
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕤 Sessions at 9:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.
📍 617 Indiana Ave.
🎟️ Free with RSVP; geared toward ages 2–12
Young children can make a difference by assembling care kits and creating crafts for elders and community leaders. Hosted in collaboration with Seeds of Caring, this event emphasizes early community involvement.
Eiteljorg Museum – Complimentary Admission
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕙 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
📍 500 W. Washington St.
🎟️ Free to all
Visitors can take in powerful exhibitions, enjoy interactive storytelling, and participate in art activities that celebrate Native American and African American histories.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – Free Admission
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕙 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
📍 3000 N. Meridian St.
🎟️ Free; tickets released Jan. 9
Families can explore exhibits, join music sessions, and engage in special MLK-themed programming that encourages learning through play.
Indiana State Museum – Free for the Day
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕙 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
📍 650 W. Washington St.
🎟️ Free entry
Visitors are invited to explore civil rights history, participate in educational programming, and engage in hands-on learning about justice and equality.
Indianapolis Zoo – Free Admission
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕘 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
📍 1200 W. Washington St.
🎟️ Free; canned food donations encouraged
Celebrate Dr. King’s vision of community and care by connecting with nature. The Zoo offers educational activities highlighting kindness and environmental awareness.
IPS Tribute at Crispus Attucks High School
📅 Friday, Jan. 16 • 🕙 10 a.m.
📍 Crispus Attucks High School
🎟️ Free and open to the public
Indianapolis Public Schools students will honor Dr. King with a tribute that includes performances, reflections, and creative presentations of his ideals.
MLK Evening Celebration at Madam Walker Legacy Center
📅 Monday, Jan. 19 • 🕖 7 p.m.
📍 617 Indiana Ave.
🎟️ Free
Close out the day with the 44th Annual MLK Celebration at the historic Walker Theatre. This evening gathering features guest speakers and musical acts focused on Dr. King’s enduring influence.