As we approach Monday, January 15, 2024, our nation gears up to honor and celebrate the legacy of a civil rights icon, Martin Luther King, Jr. This federal holiday, observed annually on the third Monday of January, provides us with an opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s vision of equality, justice, and unity. Across the country, communities are coming together to commemorate this day with various events that inspire positive change and celebrate diversity. Here’s a list of community events you won’t want to miss on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day! In observation of the holiday, there is no school and SDoL offices are closed on January 15 and January 16. Students will report back to school on Wednesday, January 17.
- Martin Luther King Jr. Food Tour
Kendra Wolfe, head of tourism business Unique Lancaster Experiences, will guide people through several immigrant- and minority-run restaurants in Lancaster city and educate participants about Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy. She promises to have attendees leave feeling “well-fed and well-informed.”
There is an additional food tour next Tuesday, Jan. 16, if you miss this weekend’s tours.
More information: Friday at 12:30 p.m., Saturday at 4 p.m., Sunday at 12:30 p.m. | Lancaster City Welcome Center, 38 Penn Square, Lancaster (starting location) | Cost: $65 | More info
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NAACP Lancaster Branch to host 44th annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration service
The NAACP Lancaster Branch will host its 44th annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration service Sunday at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Lancaster city. The service featuring salutations and music by local clergy, church choirs and community leaders, begins at 5 p.m. at the 31 S. Duke St. church. The event is free and open to the public.
- 36th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast is an annual event that pays tribute to the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic figures in American history. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a visionary civil rights leader who dedicated his life to advocating for justice, equality, and nonviolent social change. This inspiring breakfast brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate his memory, reflect on his powerful message, and recommit to the principles of unity and equality that he championed.
This annual event stands as a beacon of hope and a call to action, encouraging individuals to carry forward the torch of justice and equality in their own lives and communities. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast serves as a powerful reminder that the struggle for civil rights and social justice is ongoing and that, together, we can continue to bend the arc of the moral universe toward justice, just as Dr. King did in his lifetime.
- YWCA Lancaster’s MLK Day Children’s Celebration – 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
We’ll be honoring the legacy of one of our nation’s most influential figures for justice and equity with readings, interactive activities, dancing, snacks, and more!
Book Readings:
- 10am – This Little Voter by Ann Bonnie
- Read by Stephanie Thomas, 2023 Women of Achievement Honoree.
- 11am – Who Are Your People by Bakari Sellers
- Read by Ismail Smith-Wade-El, Pennsylvania State Representative.