Below are events and activities in and around Indianapolis celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King on January 18, 2021. Many events and activities are free but require obtaining an advanced ticket due to Covid-19 capacity restraints. Please contact the venue prior to attending.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Madam Walker Legacy Center – VIRTUAL EVENT
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration with Angela Davis & Alicia Garza
Join the conversation between the legendary political activist and author Angela Davis, and the co-founder of Black Lives Matter, Alicia Garza.
Davis and Garza will discuss activism “then” and “now”, civil rights, social justice, inclusion, equality and much more. Reserve your free tickets for this virtual event today as tickets are limited. Presented by the Madam Walker Legacy Center.
VIRTUAL
Monday, January 18, 2021
4 p.m.–6 p.m.
FREE
Visit Event Webpage for link and more information
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Indiana Historical Society
Pause and reflect to remember Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. through the power of music. Enjoy the sounds, and raise your voice and learn about the anthems of the marches and demonstrations of the Civil Rights era. From spirituals to ballads, these songs are the soundtrack to celebrate the vibrant and resilient heritage of Black Americans.
Take a trip back in time to explore music and civil rights in the time of Madam C.J. Walker, the Indianapolis Centennial and the heyday of Gennett Records. Learn how IHS is continuing to preserve stories of marches and demonstrations through Project Take a Stand, and find out how you can learn more about civil rights.
Presented in partnership with The Center for Black Literature & Culture.
Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center
Monday, January 18, 2021
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Free with advance ticket
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
In celebration of his life and legacy, guests are invited to join the Indianapolis Zoo to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Along with its other partners in White River State Park, parking and admission to the Zoo are free on this day. Donation jars will be on site for monetary donations benefiting Gleaner’s Food Bank; donation of a canned food item will not be accepted this year due to COVID-19. Reserve your time here.
Zoo is open weather permitting 9 a.m. to 4 p.m
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
See some of Dr. King’s most iconic speeches, experience activities that explore civil and human rights, and reflect on what you can do to ensure Dr. King’s dream lives on for future generations.
Admission is FREE; donation of a canned food item for Gleaners Food Bank will not be accepted this year due to COVID-19.
Parking is free in the White River State Park underground garage. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors are still required to call the site to reserve their visit in advance.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The Indianapolis Children’s Museum
The museum opens its doors with FREE admission to all children and families to celebrate the life, achievements, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. You need to make an advance reservation by calling 317-334-4000 to get your timed tickets. SOLD OUT
Special events:
- Enjoy music from the Griot Drum Ensemble
- Join storyteller Portia Jackson as she shares stories of courageous children in the Civil Rights Movement
- FREE admission is from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Eiteljorg Museum
Enjoy FREE admission to the Eiteljorg Museum on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The museum requires pre-reserved timed tickets to see the holiday model train exhibit, Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure, as well as general admission to see other exhibits at the museum. Timed tickets are required and limited based upon capacity. Click here to reserve tickets. Parking is free in the White River State Park underground garage.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Monday, January 18, 2021
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Free admission with advance reservations