Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday isn't just a day off – it's a call to action. It's a reminder of the unfinished dream, the persistent fight for justice and equality that continues to resonate across Indiana and beyond. Across the state, communities gear up to honor his legacy not just with parades and speeches, but with active reflection, dedicated service, and joyful celebration. Whether you're seeking inspiration at a museum exhibit, lending a hand in a community project, or soaking up the energy of a cultural event, Indiana offers countless ways to make Dr. King's Day truly meaningful.

Events & Celebrations

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration

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Martin Luther Speech at Washington DC

Bloomington: Buskirk-Chumley Theater

Sharing Dr. King’s sentiments, the City of Bloomington Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Commission is committed to amplifying his message regarding the power of education during the 2024 celebration and beyond. This year’s theme is Unlocking Freedom: The Transformative and Liberating Power of Education.

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Beyond The Mountain Top: Day of Service & Festival

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Beyond The Mountain Top: Day of Service & Festival Martin Luther King Celebration

Evansville: Victory Theatre & Evansville African American Museum

Celebrate the legacy of Dr. King as several Southern Indiana bands come together for a concert hosted by the historic Victory Theatre in Downtown Evansville on Friday, January 12th at 7pm. On Saturday, January 13th, the Evansville African American Museum will host Beyond The Mountain Top, an engaging festival for all ages that will feature an art show, several local vendors, food tucks, a kids zone.

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Learn & Celebrate in Hamilton County

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Hamilton County

Celebrate the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, Jan. 16 with free events in Carmel and Fishers. From free museum admission to a commemoration ceremony, there are several ways to honor King's legacy.

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Free Admission!

Indiana Historical Society

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Indiana Historical Society

450 W Ohio St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Spend the day with us and take advantage of FREE ADMISSION be inspired to be your best self by focusing on service to one another and our communities. Be uplifted and encouraged by storytelling and music, add your own commitment to “Be the Change” to a growing mural, and reflect on all the big and little things you can do to improve the world around you.

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Levi & Catharine Coffin State Historic Site

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Levi and Catharine Coffin House State Historic Site

201 US Hwy 27, Fountain City, IN 47341

Enjoy free admission to the Levi and Catharine Coffin State Historic Site in Fountain City in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday! Guided tours are available at 10:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. It is highly recommended to call the site at 765.847.1691 to pre-register for a tour time. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

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All National Parks

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Lincoln Boyhood Cabin in Spring

Various Locations

All National Park Service Locations will offer free admission on January 15th in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parks Included: Falls of the Ohio State Park, George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, Lincoln Boyhood Home, and Indiana Dunes National Park.

Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites

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Angel Mounds State Historic Site

Various Locations

Nine Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites locations will offer free admission on January 15th. Those locations include: Indiana State Museum (Indy), Angel Mounds (Evansville), Corydon Capitol (Corydon), Culbertson Mansion (New Albany), Lanier Mansion (Madison), Levi and Catharine Coffin (Fountain City), Limberlost (Geneva), T.C. Steele (Nashville) and Vincennes.

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