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MLK Weekend 2024 in Philly: AAMP, Please Touch, Constitution Center, and More Things to Do

Celebrate MLK weekend with free interactive workshops and enriching service projects honoring Martin Luther King Jr.
Celebrate MLK weekend with free interactive workshops and enriching service projects honoring Martin Luther King Jr.
1/10/24 - By Nicole O'Donnell

Looking for the best things to do in Philly this MLK Jr. weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your schedule.

Philly kids may have an extra day off from school. But, this day off means more than just 'no homework.' Recognize Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with one of the many opportunities to celebrate his legacy by visiting museums, attending service events, or doing some arts and crafts. 

After observing the holiday, don’t forget to check out our Best Free and Fun Things to Do in Philly this January or 12 Winter Festivals for Philly Families to help beat the winter blues. Whatever you do, make the most of the long weekend ahead.

More Things To Do in Philly this Week with Kids:

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Contemplate the significance and ongoing relevance of Dr. King's 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” during an all-day event at Eastern State Penitentiary. Photo courtesy of the penitentiary
Contemplate the significance and ongoing relevance of Dr. King's 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” during an all-day event at Eastern State Penitentiary. Photo courtesy of the penitentiary

Things to do in Philadelphia this Weekend with Kids

MLK Weekend Celebration at AAMP

Saturday-Monday, January 13-15, 2024
Philadelphia
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. and through the generosity of Citizens Bank, the African American Museum is hosting a weekend of activities including performances, meaningful discussions, family activities, and access to exhibits. READ MORE

MLK Weekend at the Museum of the American Revolution

Saturday-Monday, January 13-15, 2024
Philadelphia
Visit the Museum of the American Revolution during MLK Weekend to honor the life, service, and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Through theatrical performances, pop-up talks, discovery carts, and a poetry activity, visitors can discover the ongoing promise of the American Revolution and explore what it takes to change the world. READ MORE

Up Late With the Sphinx

Saturday, January 13, 2024
Philadelphia
Calling all kids and families! Have you ever wanted to explore the museum galleries after dark? Visit the Penn Museum and stay Up Late with the Sphinx for an evening filled with games and gallery activities. Drop into a hands-on workshop and make something special to take home, then finish your evening with a flashlight tour through the museum. Each ticket includes a special Penn Museum patch. This program is best suited for children ages 6-12. READ MORE

Peter Wentz Farmstead’s Candlelight Event

Saturday, January 13, 2024
Lansdale
Come spend a lovely winter’s eve with us here at the Farmstead!  The soft glow of candles will light your way as you explore this historic property. Learn how a family like the Wentzes would have spent a quiet winter’s night with this picturesque look at life in colonial Pennsylvania. Visit the Summer Kitchen to see an 18th century cooking demonstration.  READ MORE

Try Science - Space Station

Saturday, January 13, 2024
Wilmington, DE
Explore the galaxy and life on the International Space Station through sensory play including galaxy slime, a Mission Control Station, and astronaut pretend play. Make a recycled rocket to take home! READ MORE

Free Admission to Benjamin Franklin Museum

FREE
Monday, January 15, 2024
Philadelphia
Visit the Benjamin Franklin Museum for free! Visitors can view the exhibits that reflect the contributions of this Founding Father for free on certain dates throughout the year. READ MORE

MLK Day at the Constitution Center

FREE
Monday, January 15, 2024
Philadelphia
The National Constitution Center honors the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with a full day of activities, "I have a dream" art activities, and story corners. Admission to the museum is free for the day.  READ MORE

MLK Day @ Eastern State Penitentiary

FREE
Monday, January 15, 2024
Philadelphia
Every MLK Day, Fairmount’s historic prison hosts lively readings of Dr. King’s famous 1963 “Letter from a Birmingham Jail”. There will be special readings throughout the day and opportunities to connect with the text. There will be family programming from noon to 2pm, including hands-on activities and story times featuring children’s books written by and about civil rights movement leaders.  READ MORE

MLK Day of Service at Awbury Arboretum

FREE
Monday, January 15, 2024
Philadelphia
Visit Awbury Arboretum to honor the memory of Martin Luther King Jr. in a day of service. Volunteers help the continued improvement and care of this community greenspace. READ MORE

Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Festival

Monday, January 15, 2024
Philadelphia
A special family program that celebrates the words and legacy of Dr. King. Children will be inspired by stories of the courage, strength, and determination of many determined to make liberty and racial equality a reality in their lives. Artmaking projects will celebrate the words and activism of Dr. King and other legendary people involved in the Civil Rights Movement. READ MORE

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Please Touch Museum

Monday, January 15, 2024
Philadelphia
Join the Please Touch Museum for activities and performances that highlight the importance of service, leadership, and activism. READ MORE

MLK Day of Edible Crafts

Monday, January 15, 2024
Philadelphia
The Candy Lab is open from 10am to 3pm on MLK Day. Sign up for a one hour time slot to make 6 yummy edible crafts.  READ MORE
Kids under 18 are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo by Liz Baill
Kids under 18 are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo by Liz Baill

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