Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Looking for Martin Luther King Jr. Day dates or how it’s observed? Learn when it happens, why it’s important, and how people honor Dr. King’s legacy.
When is Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Monday, January 19, 2026
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday of January each year. This means the date changes annually but always falls between January 15 and January 21.
| Holiday | Year | Day of the week | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2025 | Monday | January 20, 2025 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2026 | Monday | January 19, 2026 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2027 | Monday | January 18, 2027 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2028 | Monday | January 17, 2028 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2029 | Monday | January 15, 2029 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2030 | Monday | January 21, 2030 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2031 | Monday | January 20, 2031 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2032 | Monday | January 19, 2032 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2033 | Monday | January 17, 2033 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2034 | Monday | January 16, 2034 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 2035 | Monday | January 15, 2035 |
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What is Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader in the American civil rights movement known for his advocacy of nonviolent resistance and racial equality.
The holiday was signed into law in 1983 and first observed as a federal holiday in 1986. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and service.
Is Martin Luther King Jr. Day a Public Holiday?
Yes! MLK Day is a federal holiday, meaning most government offices, banks, and schools are closed. However, some businesses may remain open.
How is Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebrated?
People honor Dr. King’s legacy through:
🕊️ Day of Service – Volunteering and giving back to the community
📜 Parades & Events – Marches and commemorative celebrations
📖 Educational Programs – Learning about civil rights history and Dr. King’s impact
🎤 Speeches & Reflections – Listening to and discussing his powerful words
Interesting Facts About Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• MLK Day was first observed in all 50 states in 2000.
• Dr. King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech was delivered in 1963 at the Lincoln Memorial.
• It is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service.
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