Celebrate MLK Day 2026 in Austin & Surrounding Areas

As Central Texas honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Austin and nearby communities are hosting a variety of events throughout MLK Week and on Monday, January 19, 2026. From community marches and festivals to volunteer opportunities and youth programs, there are many ways to participate and celebrate Dr. King’s vision of unity and service.

Annual MLK Community March & Festival

Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
Time & Location: 9:30 a.m. at the south steps of the Texas State Capitol, continuing to Huston‑Tillotson University
Austin’s signature celebration kicks off with the MLK Community March, followed by a family-friendly Community Festival from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Enjoy music, local vendors, and community activities while supporting the Central Texas Food Bank. Participation is free and open to all.

MLK Oratory Competition

Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Students in grades 4–6 have the opportunity to participate in the 21st Annual MLK Oratory Competition, delivering original speeches inspired by Dr. King’s ideals of peace, justice, and community service. This event highlights youth voices and encourages thoughtful reflection and creative expression.

Youth Legacy Scholarship Awards

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
The MLK Youth Legacy Scholarship Awards recognize outstanding students who demonstrate leadership and commitment to community service. The ceremony takes place at ACC Eastview Campus and honors the next generation of leaders carrying forward Dr. King’s vision.

MLK Jr. Day of Service

Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
Turn MLK Day into a “day on, not a day off” by volunteering in community projects. Opportunities include the Buttermilk Park Creek Clean-Up, organized by groups like Austin Youth River Watch, where participants remove trash, plant native seeds, and help restore natural areas in honor of Dr. King’s call to serve others.

Community Donation Drive

Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
At Pease Park’s Kingsbury Commons, residents can participate in a donation drive collecting non-perishable food, diapers, and hygiene products for local organizations such as the Austin Diaper Bank and Micah 6 Food Pantry. It’s a meaningful way to give back while celebrating the holiday.

Creative & Cultural Events

Dates: January 15–19, 2026
Several arts and cultural activities take place throughout the week, including the “Carver Celebrates King” series at the George Washington Carver Museum. Activities include crafts, film screenings, historic talks, and community conversations — all designed to highlight Dr. King’s legacy through creativity and culture.

Austin’s MLK Day events provide opportunities to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through celebration, reflection, community service, and education. Whether you join a march, attend a festival, volunteer, or participate in cultural activities, there’s a way for everyone to celebrate this important day in 2026.

Sources

• MLK Community March & Festival – MLK Celebration Austin – Official site with details on the march, festival, and community activities.
  
  
• City of Austin – 2026 MLK Community March & Festival – City announcement with times, locations, and festival info.
  
  
• Austinot – MLK Day 2026 Events Guide – Local guide highlighting major MLK Day events, donation drives, and community programming.
  
  
• BRAVE Communities – Circles of Light – Community gathering honoring Dr. King’s legacy through arts, performances, and civic engagement.