Martin Luther King Day is a state and federal holiday that is observed on the third Monday in January. The holiday commemorates the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose actual birthday was January 15, 1929. During one of his visits to Memphis, the civil rights leader was assassinated at the Lorraine Motel on April 4, 1968. Today, the city remembers Dr. King with King Day events, including those at the National Civil Rights Museum, a facility built around the Lorraine Motel, which showcases the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. Below you will find information on some of these events.
King Day at the National Civil Rights Museum:
1/16/10 -- MLK Youth Day 10 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. for kids ages 3-10. Activities will include art, music, educational games, construction of a giant birthday cake that participants will decorate.
1/18/10 -- MLK Day Celebration from 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Includes special $2 admission to the museum, live music, speeches, drama performances, and more.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration at MIFA:
Each year, MIFA hosts a Day of Reflection and Service Celebration to honor its staff, volunteers, and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The event features speakers, exhibits, awards, and a free continental breakfast -- 2010 information to come.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration Game:
On January 18, 2010, the Memphis Grizzlies will take on the Phoenix Suns in a special King Day game at the FedEx Forum. The game will begin at 4:29 p.m. and will be nationally televised on TNT.
