10 powerful ways to celebrate MLK Day in Atlanta: Events, tributes and legacy

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a day off—it’s a call to action to honor the legacy of a leader who changed the world. From inspiring parades and community service projects to family-friendly events and thought-provoking performances, there are countless ways to celebrate and reflect on Dr. King’s vision of justice, equality and unity. We’ve rounded up 10 powerful ways to make this MLK Day meaningful. Share this list and let’s honor the dream together!

2025 King Center MLK Day Observance

Taking place at the historic King Center in Atlanta, this year’s events will feature transformative speeches, educational workshops and impactful community discussions centered on equality, justice and unity. With a special emphasis on youth empowerment, this event will honor Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.”

Location: Downtown Atlanta - 449 Auburn Ave NE; Date: January 9-20; Admission: Prices vary, see website; Time: Times vary, see website; Website: thekingcenter.org

Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2025 at Atlanta History Center

Discover inspiring stories through engaging panel discussions, interactive exhibits, and thought-provoking activities for all ages at Atlanta History Center. Dive into civil rights-themed trivia, explore the arts, education and government’s role in the fight for equality, and inspire the next generation.

Location: Buckhead - 130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW; Date: January 18; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Website: atlantahistorycenter.com

NAACP DeKalb MLK Jr. Parade: “Still I Rise”

The streets of DeKalb County will come alive with marching bands, powerful floats, community organizations, and leaders standing together to honor the life of Martin Luther King Jr. Bring your family, wave your flags, and join the Stonecrest community for a fun-filled day.

Location: Stonecrest - 8109 Mall Pkwy; Date: January 18; Admission: Free; Time: Starts at 10 a.m.; Website: naacpdekalb.org

Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend at Children’s Museum of Atlanta

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta invites families to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with a weekend full of inspiring, hands-on fun! Kids can learn about Dr. King’s dream of equality through interactive storytelling, engaging crafts, and special performances that bring history to life.

Location: Downtown Atlanta - 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW; Date: January 18-20; Admission: $17.95; Time: Times vary, see website; Website: childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Martin Luther King, Jr.: Life & Legacy

Enjoy an unforgettable day at Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center featuring a special screening of Our Friend, Martin—the beloved animated film that brings Dr. King’s story and the Civil Rights movement to life for kids. Take part in hands-on fun at various activity stations. It’s the perfect way for families to come together and reflect on history.

Location: Sandy Springs - 1 Galambos Wy; Date: January 20; Admission: Free; Time: 1-4 p.m.; Website: visitsandysprings.org

“I Have A Dream” Viewing

Experience the power of Martin Luther King Jr.’s words like never before at the “I Have a Dream” viewing at Colony Square! Gather with the community to watch the iconic speech that changed history, projected on the big screen in the heart of Midtown. Feel the inspiration, celebrate the legacy, and honor Dr. King’s timeless message of hope and equality.

Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1197 Peachtree St NE; Date: January 20; Admission: Free; Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Website: colonysquare.com

Palefsky Collision Project MLK Day Performance

Get ready to be inspired at your next visit to the Woodruff Arts Center! This electrifying event brings together bold, young voices to honor Dr. King’s legacy with a fresh and powerful take on Dreams Born of Chaos, an original work inspired by Amanda Gorman’s The Hill We Climb.

Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1280 Peachtree St NE; Date: January 20; Admission: Free; Time: Event starts at 2 p.m.; Website: alliancetheatre.org

2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

Join the city of Marietta for the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, a powerful tribute to one of history’s greatest leaders! This inspiring event will feature entertainment, musical performances, dances, readings, and more!

Location: Marietta - 548 South Marietta Pkwy SE; Date: January 20; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to noon; Website: marietta.com

Annual Martin Luther King Day Parade

Kicking off with a heartfelt ceremony at Gwinnett Justice Administration Center, the festivities continue with a spectacular parade. But the celebration doesn’t stop there—stick around for an exciting lineup of entertainment, mouthwatering food, and a variety of local vendors bringing the energy of the day to life.

Location: Lawrenceville - 75 Langley Dr; Date: January 20; Admission: Free; Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Website: unitedebonysociety.org

MLK Day 5K Drum Run

Get ready to move, groove, and honor Dr. King’s legacy at the MLK Day 5K Drum Run in Stonecrest! This one-of-a-kind race combines fitness, music, and community spirit.. Stick around after the race for music, food, and fun that will leave you inspired.

Location: Doraville - 5935 New Peachtree Rd; Date: January 20; Admission: $40; Time: Race starts at 9 a.m.; Website: mlkday5k.com