Martin Luther King Jr. Day means more than just a day off from school or work. The reason why it’s a national holiday is to honor the legacy of man who gave his life fighting for civil rights and justice for all Americans. To that end, we’ve rounded a couple of family-friendly events where families can learn about and celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.
BAM: BAM hosts NYC’s biggest community celebration in honor of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The famous event brings together activists, civic leaders, musicians, poets, and intellectuals under one roof to celebrate the great civil rights leader. This year, performances include The Institutional Radio Choir and the Sacred Steel band, and the keynote speaker is Opal Tometi, one of the founders of Black Lives Matter. Tickets are distributed on a first come first serve basis starting at 8am on January 16th. January 16 from 10:30am to 4:00pm. Price: Free. 30 Lafayette Avenue. bam.org
Brooklyn Children’s Museum: Families can honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Museum’s I Have a Dream Celebration. This two-day event will explore the life and times of the civil rights activist through arts and crafts, film, storytelling, and music. All ages can make protest posters and peace postcards, and watch a live performance by the Brooklyn United Marching Band. January 15 from 10am to 5pm. Price: $11; free for children under age 12. 145 Brooklyn Avenue. brooklynkids.org
Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture: BSEC is hosting a fun-filled day of family activities to remember the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Grown-ups and kiddos can enjoy African music, drumming, and dance, face painting, and African crafts and costumes. Jungle Dom will also give children an African dance lesson! Everyone is encouraged to practice their moves during a live performance. Afterwards, families can refuel on African food. January 16 from 2pm to 4pm. Price: $15 for ages 3 to 12; free for ages 2 and under; $5 for adults and teens accompanying a child. 53 Prospect Park West. 718-768-2972. bsec.org
Children’s Museum of Manhattan: Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the annual community art installation, Martin’s Mosaic. During the holiday weekend, families can create a mosaic of Dr. King’s portrait, a children’s book about the famous civil rights leader and his wife, Coretta Scott King, and enjoy peaceful dance movement showcasing the contemporary, modern, and Afro-Caribbean dance styles. January 14-16, visit website for various times. Price: Free. 212 West 83rd Street. 212-721-1223. cmom.org
Manhattan Country School: Manhattan Country School eighth graders will honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by taking to the streets of Manhattan to speak out about what they consider to be the most pressing civil rights issues of their time. The theme of this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative March is “We Will Not Be Silenced: A Call to Action,” inspired by the recent presidential election and King’s quote: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Along the march route, students will stop at locations significant to the fight for civil rights and deliver speeches to raise awareness about issues such as racism, sexism, and environmental justice, and to advocate for inclusion and equality. The general public is invited to join MCS students, families, alumni, staff, and supporters for this educational and uplifting annual event. January 16 from 10am to 1pm. Price: Free. Location: March begins at Riverside Church (490 Riverside Drive) and ends at Manhattan Country School (150 West 85th Street). manhattancountryschool.org
