8 ways to honor Martin Luther King Jr. in Philly
(Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
Martin Luther King, Jr. wore many hats, so it makes sense that celebration of his legacy takes on many forms. MLK Day is supposed to be a “day on” rather than a “day off.” Traditionally known as a day of service, in the last two years groups and organizations have begun to broaden the ways to commemorate King’s legacy.
Philadelphia has hundreds of events to choose from. Here’s our roundup of some family-friendly options around the city.
Take part in the first MLK Day celebration at the Woodmere Art Museum, where kids can see the We Speak: Black Artists of Philadelphia exhibition (though 1/24), learn about Dr. King, enjoy performances and participate in activist letter writing campaign to our city’s new mayor.
Organize a One King Day, One King Book event with a group or classroom. Read either “The Girl from the Tar Paper School,” “The Lions of Little Rock,” or “Warriors Don’t Cry” and respond with a drawing or essay.
Enjoy a weekend of commemoration and celebration at the African American History Museum for a reduced admission fee of $2/day. Three full days of interactive and enlightening arts activities, performances and workshops. Guests can also explore the museum’s core exhibit, Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia, 1776-1876.
Spend the day at the Constitution Center for a lowered admission fee of $5. Learn about Dr. King’s legacy, participate in a book drive, quilt, or pillow-making project, and take in the performances.
Volunteer through the Unitarian Society of Germantown. Family-friendly options include lunch bag assembly, elderly visits, winter coat collection, and MLK reading circle.
Spend a day at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is opening its doors (on a Monday!) for pay-what-you-wish and an MLK Day celebration. Families can see art, make art and enjoy performances.
Head to the Please Touch Museum where even the littlest of littles can create, play, watch and listen as they learn about King.
Check out this searchable list for more options. You can narrow the search by activity, location, age, etc.
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