Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federal holiday in 1983, honoring the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to fighting for civil rights. In 2026, his work lives on and is celebrated with a variety of events in the Charlotte area. Take a moment to find an event that speaks to you from the list below.
Thursday, January 15, 2026:
- Wreath Laying Ceremony at 11:30am in Marshall Park
- Concord/Cabarrus MLK Annual Celebration – One of the largest celebrations honoring Martin Luther King Jr.
- Wreath Laying Ceremony – Grace Lutheran Church in Concord, NC at 6:00pm
Friday, January 16, 2026:
- Keeper of the Dreams Banquet – Ticketed event at the Laureate Center in Kannapolis, NC
Saturday, January 17, 2026:
- MLK Jr. Parade – 9:30am on Tryon Street between 9th Street and Brooklyn Village Avenue, featuring over 100 community organizations, step and drill teams, and marching bands
- United Way Call to Service – Held at the Park Expo from 10:00am-12:00pm, volunteers will help pack school supply kits and snack packs.
Monday, January 19, 2026:
- Harvey B. Gantt Center – From 9:00am-5:00pm, there will be story time sessions, crafts, and discussions.
- MLK Jr. Event – Davidson Town Hall at 10:00am
- MLK Day Celebration – David Waymer Recreation Center, Huntersville, NC from 3:00pm-5:00pm (free event)
- Family Day Celebration – Levine Museum for the New South
- MLK Dream Day Parade – 11:00am in Kannapolis, NC, followed by the Dream Day Festival at the Laureate Center (401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC).
Check back for more events, which will be added as they are announced!
