Since 1986, we've celebrated the third Monday in January as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. And what better way to honor Dr. King's legacy than becoming stronger, more informed members of our community? Luckily, Indy has tons of free activities planned for MLK Day 2020 to help you do just that!
This Monday, a number of museums, public spaces, and organizations are offering opportunities for you to learn, serve, and remember. My guess is you and your loved ones will also have some fun at the same time.
Madam Walker Legacy Center
If you’ve seen the groud-breaking Netflix docuseries When They See Us, don’t miss the opportunity to hear from criminal justice reform advocate Kevin D. Richardson. Wrongly accused and sentenced, Richardson shares the injustice he and the Central Park Five endured in the late 1980s. Before this essential and candid conversation, join the Celebration Freedom March at 9:45 AM. The march will begin at the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library continue across Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street, ending at the Walker Theatre.
Remembering The Dreamer
It’s the perfect day of the year to visit the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park and Landmark for Peace. From 10 am to 2 pm, Indy Parks and Recreation will host Remembering the Dreamer - a special film viewing with first hand accounts of Robert Kennedy’s speech delivering the sad news of Dr. King’s assaination. Indy Parks and Recreation is also hosting a number of other MLK events throughout the day at different parks all over Indianapolis.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Each year, the world renowned Children’s Museum of Indianapolis offers free admission on a handful of days, including MLK Day. This year, the museum will be open from 10 am to 5 pm, with special activities concluding at 3 pm. Storyteller Portia Jackson will share stories of the courageous children of the Civil Rights movement. The Griot Drum Ensemble and the Freetown Village Singers will alsp perform. Check out the tips for visiting on this special day here.
Conner Prairie
The history park Conner Prairie will also celebrate MLK Day by offering free admission as a part of Community Day. The day will be packed with special events celebrating King’s accomplishments and looking toward a future where his dreams become reality. From art to speeches to music and more, you’ll learn and have the opportunity to respond to the call of correcting racial injustice.
Indiana State Museum
The Indiana State Museum at White River Park has an incredible line up special activities to honor Dr. King. Bring a canned good for each member of your group to receive free admission and parking on Monday during regular museum hours. Those items will be donated to Gleaner’s Food Bank of Indiana. Historic sites throughout Indiana will offer free admission as well, no canned goods necessary. Go here for all of the details.
Indiana Historical Society
You could also choose to spend your time at the Indiana Historical Society for MLK Day this year. Admission is free and you're encouraged to bring a donation of a winter coat to benefit the HealthNet Homelessness Initiative. The day's activities range from learning the history of Dr. King to serving your community by packing first aid kits, writing letters, and more. Don't miss the new You Are There Exhibit 1915: Madam CJ Walker, Empowering Women during your visit.
Rhythm Discovery Center
Check out the interactive exhibits at the Rhythm Discovery Center on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day this year. Enjoy free admission and a special performance by Indianapolis’ own The Groove 4tet feat. Pernell From Pike at 2 pm.
Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art
Last but not least, the Eiteljorg Museum will offer free admission, too. It's also the last day of the season to see the popular holiday exhibit Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure.
The Circle City is certain to be abuzz with inspiration and education yet again this year on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. A time for somber reflection and hopefulness looking forward, a time to get to know neighbors and serve the community we love, let's not let the day pass without choosing a special way to celebrate and honor Dr. King.