Every third Monday of January since 1971, America has honored Nobel Peace Prize winner Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the iconic leader of the civil rights movement. Dr. King gave his life in the tireless pursuit of equal rights, his words gave voice to the voiceless and his contributions to the world will never be forgotten.
Here are some of the best things to do this MLK Day and top Martin Luther King Jr. events in Newark, NJ.
Community Day Martin Luther King Jr: Stronger Together
MLK Day at the Newark Museum of Art – On Monday, January 20, 2025, the Newark Museum of Art will have a day-long MLK Day celebration, complete with hands-on activities, like button and pillow making, West African dancing and drumming, Martin Luther King, Jr. speech performances and free health screenings from Newark Community Health Centers. You and your family won’t want to miss this free annual celebration!
Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Lecture at Newark Public Library
MLK Tribute at Newark Public Library – Check out the newly revamped James Brown African American room in the Main Branch of the Newark Public Library on Saturday, January 18, 2025, during a tribute to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. The "If Dr. King and Malcolm X Were Here Now: A Speech and Conversation with Kevin Powell" is a free, family-friendly program and event. Step in for an inspiring lecture by GRAMMY-nominated poet and activist Kevin Powell as he reflects on the lasting legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X.
Celebrate with MLK Monday Family Skate
MLK Family Roller Skate at Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center – Roll in on some family fun on Monday, January 20, 2025 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the roller rink. All ages are welcome to reflect on the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with the best Hip Hop and Soul music, food at the Roller Cafe, and arcade games. The cost is $12 for admission and skate rental, or $6 for those who bring their own skates.
Give Back to the Community with Jersey Cares
MLK Day of Service with Jersey Cares – On January 20, 2025, people across the state will participate in Jersey Cares’ MLK Day of Service in order to strengthen their communities and build a stronger New Jersey. This year, volunteers can honor Dr. King's legacy through coat sorting, building literacy kits, beautify Branch Brook Park in Newark, and more.
Support Newark Black-Owned Businesses
Visit the Newark Black-Owned Business Guide for a list of restaurants, retail shops, fitness spas, and more. Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through your support of local and small business owners within the Greater Newark area.
Share a Soulful Meal Around the Table
Reflect and rejoice around the dining table with family and friends this MLK Day. Did you know that Newark, NJ has a delicious variety of Soul Food restaurants for you to choose from? Many of these local and iconic establishments are black-owned restaurants. Savour the flavors and aromas of a home-cooked meal, traditional comfort foods, and new twists on Soul Food classics. Be sure to visit the Newark Soul Food Restaurants Guide for more information.
Plan a Trip to Newark, NJ with the African American Travel Guide
Explore Newark, NJ and our rich African American history on a family-friendly vacation or simple weekend getaway. Take time this Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day to plan a Newark trip. From many historic Black churches, restaurants, art galleries, festivals and events, there is much to do and see in Greater Newark. Visit our African American Travel Guide for a curated itinerary of things to do while celebrating Newark’s African American past, present, and future.
