Celebrate Martin Luther King Day in West Philadelphia

Discover ways to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with events, community service days, and more!

Mertin Luther King Jr. Waves to a crowd of people during the March on Washington 1963

In August 1965, Martin Luther King Jr. stood at 40th and Lancaster Avenue, addressing a street corner rally. As we honor MLK Day, we reflect on the moments he shared with Philadelphians and the work that continues in his name. Read on to discover ways to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy throughout the month across West Philadelphia and beyond.

A group of children stand outside of a library, holding books and smiling

 MLK Day – Youth Celebration of Legacy & Dreams

Jan 9 | 3 PM – 5 PM

Join The Kinnect Collective at the Lucien E.Blackwell Library (761 N 47th St.) or a joyful and engaging MLK Day youth event that honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through storytelling, creativity, and reflection. Children will explore Dr. King’s life, celebrate the power of community, and imagine their own dreams for the future.

 

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Malcolm X Park on a sunny day. The park has a playground surrounded by trees

MLK Jr. Day of Service at Malcolm X Park

Jan. 19 | 12 PM – 2 PM

Join UCGreen for a Day of Service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as we come together to care for our community and environment. This volunteer day is rooted in Dr. King’s call to action—transforming remembrance into meaningful service. All are welcome to Malcolm X Park (5100 Pine St.) for an opportunity to serve together, learn together, and strengthen community through collective action.

All experience levels are welcome!

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A studio headshot image of director Spike Lee. H e wears his signature director cap and round glasses while smiling at the camera

25th MLK Jr. Social Justice Lecture & Award (SOLD OUT)

Jan. 20 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Join the Center for Africana Studies at Penn for the MLK Jr. Social Justice Lecture & Award, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s program features a special conversation with legendary director Spike Lee, in dialogue with historian Heather Andrea Williams, recognizing his enduring impact on art, culture, and social justice advocacy.

This event has sold out. Keep an eye on the event organizer’s page for updates or potential additional availability.

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Exterior shot of the Rotunda in West Philadelphia

The Orator: Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at The Rotunda

Jan. 26 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

The University of Pennsylvania African American Resource Center presents The Orator: Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., hosted at The Rotunda (4014 Walnut St.) This special one-woman performance honors Dr. King’s legacy through storytelling, history, and spoken word, reflecting on the power of oratory, community, and the Black church. Join them for an evening of reflection and performance in celebration of Dr. King’s enduring impact.

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