Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed on the third Monday of January, is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of the iconic civil rights leader. In Indianapolis, this day is marked by various events and activities that celebrate the achievements of Dr. King and emphasize the importance of service and community engagement. Here's a roundup of some key events taking place in the city, promising a day of fun for all.
White River State Park
📍 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 All Day
White River State Park attractions extend a generous invitation on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 15, 2024, offering free admission to notable destinations such as the Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Zoo, IMAX Theater, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, and the NCAA Hall of Champions and Conference Center. In collaboration with Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, this 20-year partnership aims to raise funds and awareness in the fight against hunger in central Indiana. Park visitors are encouraged to contribute through donation Dip Jars conveniently placed throughout the park or online. Enjoy the added perk of complimentary parking in the underground garage and surface lots. It's a collective effort to make MLK Day a symbol of unity, generosity, and community support.
Indiana State Museum
📍650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Embark on a day of celebration and reflection honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Join in multicultural performances, community-focused activities, and interactive sessions exploring civil rights and equity. Engage with community members, delve into artifact investigations, chat with curators, and watch videos showcasing King's iconic speeches. Reflect on how to keep the dream alive. In lieu of canned goods, contribute to Gleaners Food Bank with monetary donations via Dip Jars. Admission is FREE, and visitors enjoy complimentary parking at various locations.
Indianapolis Zoo
📍 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s commitment to service, the Indianapolis Zoo invites guests each January for a special Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration. Enjoy complimentary parking and admission, with on-site donation jars benefiting Gleaner’s Food Bank. Explore the Zoo's exhibits, including Arctic foxes, sea lions, and tigers. Indoor attractions like Oceans and Dolphin Dome will also be open. This annual observance underscores the Zoo's dedication to a diverse community. Contributions from past years supported Gleaners Food Bank, helping local children and families.
IMAX Theatre Indiana State Museum
📍650 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN
📅 January 15, 2024
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, join the celebration with FREE parking and admission to four showings of Deep Sky on 1/15 at 11:30 am, 1:00 pm, 2:30 pm, and 4:00 pm. Secure your free ticket at the Indiana State Museum, where passes are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't miss this opportunity for a day of exploration and commemoration.
Eiteljorg Museum
📍500 W. Washington St., Indianapolis
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Join in the celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at a FREE commemorative event. Visitors can immerse themselves in art-making activities, enjoy a screening of "King in Chicago," and attend a thought-provoking lecture titled "The Real Dr. Martin Luther King Jr." by local artist and activist Wildstyle Paschall. At 11 a.m., be part of the rhythm at the Community Drum Circle led by SITEAW, Inc. The day also marks the final opportunity to experience the enchanting model train wonderland, Fifth Third Bank Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure. In the spirit of giving back, attendees are encouraged to make monetary donations to Gleaners Food Bank at the museum (please refrain from bringing food items). Join in for a day of inspiration, reflection, and community on this special occasion.
NCAA Hall of Champions and Conference Center
📍 700 West Washington St, Indianapolis
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
In celebration of MLK Day on Monday, January 15th, the Hall of Champions, along with other White River State Park partners, is extending a generous invitation with FREE ADMISSION! Don't miss this opportunity to explore and enjoy. The Hall of Champions looks forward to welcoming visitors on this special day.
Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
📍 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208 | Museum-wide, Sunburnt Atrium
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis with free admission (advance tickets required). Enjoy hands-on activities like building a robot hand with Eli Lilly and Company's visiting scientist, groove to the beats of the Griot Drum Ensemble, reflect on Dr. King's words with storyteller Portia Jackson, and explore printmaking with visiting artist Ess McKee. It's a day of creativity and celebration for all ages!
Indiana Historical Society
📍 Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center
450 W Ohio St, Indianapolis, IN 46202
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a day of inspiration and community service. Enjoy FREE ADMISSION all day. Join various activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., including a special Storytime from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and a concert with Keisha Ballinger and the University United Methodist Church Praise Team from 2 to 4 p.m. Contribute to Charity Cares Clothing Closet by bringing new, in-packaged socks or underwear for kids of all sizes or make a financial donation directly. The event concludes at 4 p.m., but Indiana Historical Society exhibits will remain open until 5 p.m. Reflect, contribute, and explore ways to make a positive impact in your community.
Madam Walker Legacy Center
📍 617 Indiana Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46202
📅 January 15, 2024
🕒 12:00 PM
Experience a powerful celebration of unity and tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Madam Walker Legacy Center. The event features distinguished speaker Roland Martin, renowned American journalist and commentator for TV One. Join in the festivities, reflecting on the progress made while acknowledging the work ahead. Don't miss this meaningful occasion celebrating the iconic civil rights leader's legacy.
National Parks Fee-Free Day
Across the nation, national parks open their gates for free on January 15, 2024. It's a chance to explore, learn, and give back in the spirit of Dr. King's legacy. Find a park near you and make a day of it!
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy in Indianapolis with a day of free events! Explore White River State Park's attractions for complimentary admission and parking. Engage in activities at the Indiana Historical Society and join the powerful celebration at the Madam Walker Legacy Center. As you honor unity and service, consider your place in this vibrant community.
Note: We've rounded up the list based on the information these establishments have posted on their website and official social media accounts, and have no control over any changes or ticket availability; we've provided links to their official website; feel free to check to confirm before going.
And if you're a home buyer searching for a home, RE/MAX Advanced Realty's roster of real estate agents is READY TO ASSIST YOU FOR FREE throughout the year! Give us a call at 317-298-0961 or visit our website at www.indianapolisrealestate.com.