MLK Day is also a Day of Service & Volunteering

As a prominent leader in the civil rights movement, we honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s memory, life and legacy on the third Monday in January. Also known as the MLK Day of Service, it's an opportunity to get your kids to volunteer and give back to your New Jersey community. Your local YMCA, schools, and libraries may sponsor activities, so check them out. See a list of family friendly activities below.

Newark Museum - Community Day Martin Luther King Jr: Stronger Together

Monday, January 20, 2025, 12pm-5pm. FREE, registration required. Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr., his life, legacy, and teachings at the Newark Museum. The theme Stronger Together - love triumphs over hate, peace over conflict, and unity over division. Afternoon of hands-on activities, music, and performances. 49 Washington St, Newark, NJ.

MLK Day at Visual Arts Center of NJ

Monday, January 20, 2025, 12:30-2:30pm. All are welcome to paint rocks to contribute to our community rock garden, spreading the messages of peace, love, and hope. Art materials supplied by Visual Arts Center. 68 Elm St, Summit, NJ.

MLK Day of Service at Reeves-Reed Arboretum

Monday, January 20, 2025, 9am-12pm. Kids and families can stop by the Reeves-Reed Arboretum to create Valentine cards that will be delivered to the local eldercare community. 165 Hobart Ave, Summit, NJ.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day at National Constitution Center

Monday, January 20, 2025, 10am-5pm. FREE Admission. Programs at the National Constitution Center include reading of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, family concerts by “Two of a Kind" music duo, and a First Amendment Exhibit. Participate in arts & craft projects, story corner, and other family-friendly activities. School supplies drive on MLK Day benefiting Philadelphia school students. 525 Arch St, Philadelphia PA.

Cooking for the Civil Rights Movement at New-York Historical Society

Sunday January 19, 2025, 12pm-2pm, all ages welcome. Free with museum admission. Join in a sweet treat. Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. with the story of Georgia Gilmore and how she used her cooking skills to raise money for the Montgomery Alabama bus boycott. 170 Central Park West, New York, NY.

Free Entrance to National Parks - Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Monday, January 20, 2025. The National Park Service fee FREE days provide a great opportunity for the whole family to visit a nearby national park. Check out some parks in your local NJ, NY, PA area.

• Morristown National Historical Park, Washington’s Headquarters, Morristown, NJ
• Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, NJ
• Thomas Edison, Home & Laboratory, West Orange, NJ
• Gettysburg National Military Park, PA
• Ellis Island National Monument, NY

Sandy Hook Beach Cleanup - MLK Day of Service

Monday, January 20, 2025, 3:30pm-5pm. Help clean up the beach and protect marine ecosystems, wildlife, and our environment. Supplies provided. Sandy Hook Beach Plaza B in New Jersey.