Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – also known as MLK Day – is Monday, January 20 this year. The day celebrates and honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the minister, activist, and leader of the civil rights movements in the United States. Dr. King was born on January 15, 1929; the third Monday in January is a federal holiday recognizing his birth and impact.
Over the weekend, there will be many events designed to remember Dr. King and educate people of all ages about his important role in U.S. history. In downtown Baltimore, some of the best events combining fun and education will take place at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum and Port Discovery Children’s Museum.
Reginald F. Lewis Museum
On Monday, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum has a full slate of events planned to remember and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The lineup includes a story hour and mural art project sharing the history of the desegregation of a local amusement park and carousel, a talk by UMass Amherst professor Dr. Traci Parker, focusing on department stores and the black freedom movement, and a theatrical presentation and talkback session exploring the topic of escalating conflicts among young people.
In addition, visitors to the museum can check out the annual High School Juried Art Exhibition and hear musical selections by the choir from Baltimore’s City College High School.
Port Discovery
On Saturday, January 18, Sunday, January 19 and Monday, January 20, Port Discovery Children’s Museum hosts “Be the Light,” an event designed to help children understand and embody Dr. King’s messages of fairness.
The weekend includes interactive programs and performances focused on helping kids understand how they can become “Change Makers” like Dr. King – how their actions can have an impact in the community.
Looking ahead to February on the water
February is Black History Month; throughout the month many Baltimore businesses and organizations will celebrate the history and efforts of African Americans. Now is a good time to plan ahead to enjoy some of those activities.
On Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month, Historic Ships of Baltimore will offer a special tour dubbed “To Catch a Thief: Constellation Fights the Slave Trade.” The hands-on tour, which takes place on the USS Constellation, highlights the ship’s history during the Civil War, when it was part of the African Squadron, helping combat the trans-Atlantic slave trade.
The tour will be given at 1 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday during February and will be available to all visitors, with no reservations or special ticketing required. It is also an option for groups with reservations during the rest of the year.
Where to Park for MLK Day Events in Downtown Baltimore
If you’re heading downtown for events over the weekend or on MLK Day, it’s smart to strategize – make a plan for your day, starting with where to park.
Located at 55 Market Place in downtown Baltimore, Harbor Park Garage is conveniently and centrally located just steps from the places you’ll want to visit and see. It’s right next door to Port Discovery and it’s only a short walk from the garage to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum or to the harbor, where the USS Constellation is docked.
Plus, the garage is located close to many restaurants, which are perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner stop before or after your MLK activities.
Harbor Park is safe and well-lit and easily accessible from major routes in and out of the city, including I-83. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable; they will be happy to point you in the right direction and answer any questions you might have about how to get around and what to do downtown.