Martin Luther King, Jr. gave us many reasons to celebrate! Oklahoma City boasts several special events honoring the inspiring historical figure and his legacy. Below, find a list of parades and celebrations hosted in his honor. Then, find a list of other special activities for families to do over the school holiday.
If you’re interested in spending the three-day weekend away from home, be sure to check out these 3 Adventures for Your 3-Day Weekend or our list of 10 kid-friendly day trips. Every destination listed is within 100 miles of the Oklahoma City metro!
For even more family fun away from home, see these exciting family travel destinations throughout the state and beyond.
Ways to celebrate MLK Jr. Day at home:
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is what are you doing for others?” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Designated as national a day of service, families are encouraged to find a way to give back to those around them. Pick up trash on a walk around your neighborhood or in your favorite park, do something kind for someone in need, fill a nearby food pantry, sign up to provide a meal for teens experiencing homelessness or write a letter to a local leader about a cause that is important to you. We have outlined several volunteer opportunities for families here as inspiration.
Listen to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s iconic “I Have A Dream” speech delivered during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on Aug. 28, 1963.
Read a book about Dr. King’s legacy such as:
- I Have A Dream with paintings by Kadir Nelson
- Enough! 20 Protestors Who Changed America by Emily Easton
- Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson; illustrated by Frank Morrison
- My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Martin Luther King III; illustrated by A.G. Ford
Find more kid-friendly reading suggestions here.
Events celebrating MLK Jr. Day in the metro:
Jan. 19
FREE MLK Day of Service Community Clean Up at Norman Parks
Various locations
Features an interfaith breakfast and park clean up. All ages welcome. Preregister. 8 a.m.
FREE Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration
Various locations in Downtown OKC
Features a silent march, bell ringing, and parade. The silent march begins at 9 a.m., bell ringing at 10 a.m., program at 12:15 p.m. and parade at 2 p.m.
Feb. 7
Norman Philharmonic’s Black History Month/MLK Celebration Concert at Center for Arts & Learning, Benson Auditorium
3801 Journey Pkwy, Norman
Features a special performance to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr and share messages of hope, determination and unity. Adults, $18; students, $9. 4 p.m.
Events celebrating MLK Jr. Day outside the metro:
Jan. 19
FREE Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade in Tulsa
Detroit & John Hope Franklin Blvd, Tulsa
Features a parade organized by the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Society of Tulsa. Themed floats, music and marchers will honor a legend and celebrate freedom with the community. 11 a.m.
Local events happening over the weekend:
Through Jan. 18
OAK on Ice at Heartwood Park
5101 N Penn Ave, OKC
Enjoy gliding across the ice with artful views, festive lights, and a welcoming atmosphere. $10-$15. Monday-Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday, 4-10 p.m.; Saturday, noon-10 p.m.; Sunday, noon-9 p.m.
Through Feb. 1
Edmond Ice Rink at Mitch Park
1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond
Skate around the outdoor ice rink. $14 with skate rental, $10 without, kids (under 5), $10. Monday-Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; Friday, 3-10 p.m.; Saturday, noon-10 p.m.; Sunday, noon-9 p.m.
Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens
301 W Reno Ave, OKC
Features outdoor ice skating on 5,500 square feet of real ice. $14, $9 without skates; members, $9. Friday, 3-11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Monday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Jan. 16-19
International Finals Rodeo at Lazy E Arena
9600 Lazy E Dr, Guthrie
Features professional rodeo action as cowboys and cowgirls compete for the title of World Champion in eight different events. $20 & up. See website for schedule.
Jan. 17
FREE Guided Gallery Tours at Oklahoma Contemporary
11 NW 11th St, OKC
Features a free guided tour of the museum’s exhibitions. Preregister. 1-2 p.m.
Exploring Extinction: The Dodo opens at Sam Noble Museum
2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman
This exhibit looks into the life and death of this iconic creature as a case of human-driven extinction. Starting with pristine Mauritius, this traveling exhibition reveals the tragedy that ensued as humans expanded across the oceans and explores the means to stop and even reverse those tragedies today. Free with admission – Adults, $12; kids (4-17) $7; kids (3 & under), free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
For even more family-fun ideas, check out our searchable calendar or our guide to current museum exhibits.
