Celebrate the great work Martin Luther King, Jr. did for the Civil Rights Movement with all the events happening in Houston on January 18 and 20, 2025. This incredible man has a history in Houston, as it was here in 1960 during the Texas Southern University students' protest of desegregated lunch counters that motivated his desire for civil rights. Join bustling Houstonians as we celebrate this important man in history.

 

MLK Jr Day Freedom Run

January 18, 2025 | 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at this city run at Eleanor Tinsley Park. Open to all abilities. Come for a great atmosphere and take home your custom finisher's t-shirt. The event is by Buffalo Bayou in Downtown. If you are not running, show up to cheer on the runners!

 

29th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration

January 18, 2025

Each year, the Children’s Museum of Houston honors the legacy of civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., with messages of unity, justice, and peace. Beginning at noon, enjoy musical selection, performance by Ministry in Notion and reenactment of I Have a Dream speech by Steve Scott. At 2 and 3 p.m., children will have a special Storytime & Craft. Following the reading, they will work together to make their own Unity Peace Doves.

 

Black Heritage Society Soiree at Hotel ICON

January 18, 2025 | 6 p.m.

Immerse yourself in an evening filled with celebration, engaging conversations, music, dance, and so much more! The distinguished Funky Larry Jones will host insightful discussions, while DJ Game will set the perfect mood for the night. The evening's Grand Marshal will be Rev. Dr. Derek King, nephew of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Nate (Nathienal) Griffin, sports anchor/reporter for KRIV-TV Fox 26 Morning Show, will act as Co-Grand Marshal. If you are coming from out of town or want a staycation, enjoy your stay at the ICON Hotel at a discounted rate. View more details.

 

Rothko Chapel: 2025 MLK Day Observance  - Audio Installation

January 20, 2025

In honor of MLK Day each year, the iconic Rothko Chapel in Houston plays speeches from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life throughout the day. Listen to the quiet of the chapel resonate with MLK’s voice.  This event is free, and registration is not required.

  • 11 a.m. – “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop,” delivered on April 3, 1968, at Mason Temple, Memphis, TN (43:06 minutes)
  • 1 p.m. – “Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence,” delivered on April 4, 1967, at Riverside Church, New York City, NY (56:19 minutes) 
  • 3 p.m. – “The Other America,” delivered on April 14, 1967, at Stanford University, CA (47:54 minutes)
  • 4 p.m. – “I Have a Dream,” delivered on August 28, 1963, at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C. (17:50 minutes)

 

47th Original MLK Jr. Day Parade

January 20, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The Black Heritage Society Inc., in collaboration with the City of Houston and Mayor John Whitmire, extends an invitation to the 47th Original MLK Jr. Day Parade, followed by the MLK Jr. Festival. The parade starts in Downtown Houston at Lamar and Smith Street. After the parade, head to Hermann Square at City Hall for the MLK Festival, which features live performances, kid-friendly activities, arts and crafts vendors, marketing booths, food, and more family-friendly fun. The 47th Original MLK Jr. Parade will feature Rev. Dr. Derek King, Dr. MLK Jr.’s nephew, as the Grand Marshal.

 

31st Annual MLK Grande Parade

January 20, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

The 31st Annual MLK Grande Parade will be held on January 20, 2025, in Midtown Houston, originating on San Jacinto Street & Elgin Street beginning @ 10A (CST). The parade's theme is "Unity Through Diversity" and will feature culturally Diverse performance groups from across the nation.