Ways to Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. With Boston Kids
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a day off from school, when families can explore the life, legacy, and lessons of the iconic civil rights leader (and take a break from schedules a bit). But Monday is also a day on: when kids and adults are encouraged to help out in their communities and find ways to show kindness to others in gestures of service. Boston offers families plenty of ways to commemorate and learn more about Dr. King’s legacy throughout the holiday weekend.
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Joyful Noise Concert—Sanders Theatre, Cambridge
Saturday, January 19, 2019
The annual gospel concert honoring the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. features the Harlem Gospel Choir, sharing its message of peace, hope and love.
Day of Service and Celebration Tribute Concert—George Sherman Union, Boston
Monday, January 21, 2019
The Boston Youth Symphony, in association with the Museum of African American History and the Mayor's Office of Arts, Tourism and Special Events, presents a free, family-friendly concert that pays tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr. FREE
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service—Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston
Monday, January 21, 2019
Families are welcome to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day by exploring the majestic gardens and legendary galleries of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, with performances focused on the theme of community service. FREE
The Harlem Gospel Choir is performing in the annual Joyful Noise Concert in Cambridge.
Annual Cambridge MLK Day of Service—City Hall, Cambridge MA
Monday, January 21, 2019
Cambridge families can volunteer at the 8th Annual Cambridge Day of Service (organized by Many Helping Hands 365) to celebrate Martin Luther King Day and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy with activities like making fleece blankets for the homeless and valentines for seniors. FREE
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert—Jordan Hall, Boston
Monday, January 21, 2019
In partnership with New England Conservatory, Boston Children’s Chorus celebrates the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday with performances paying tribute to King’s work and reflecting on the challenges we still face as a society. This year's theme is "She Persisted," focusing on women's role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Open House—Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Monday, January 21, 2019
The MFA offers free admission, films, performances, and art activities in recognition of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. FREE
Benkadi Drum and Dance: African Freedom—John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston
Monday, January 21, 2019
Families can join the JFK Library and Museum as the multicultural Benkadi Drum and Dance group returns to perform new dances that showcase the traditional rhythms and movements from West African countries. Reservations required; call or register via the website. Be sure to check FREE
Photo courtesy of Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History
Celebrate Martin Luther King Day Family Day—Spellman Museum, Weston
Monday, January 21, 2019
Kids can learn about Dr. King's life and participate in various stamp activities, like making their own free collection of US stamps from the Black Heritage US stamp series.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration—Somerville
Monday, January 21, 2019
This annual event features musical performances by El Sistema and the World Percussion Ensemble, as well as readings by winners of the town student essay contest. A keynote address will be given by Aba Taylor, a social justice educator, facilitator and organizer. This year, the Somerville Human Rights Commission will hold a Winter Clothing Drive during the event, so consider bringing new or gently worn winter clothes suitable for school-aged children.
Originally published Jan 2012; Updated 1/13, 1/14, 1/15, 1/16, 1/17, 1/18, 1/19