As we pause this weekend to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Birmingham is coming together through service, celebration, and remembrance. Here are 7 events happening across the city to commemorate MLK Day this year.
1. 40th Annual MLK Unity Breakfast
When: Monday, January 19: Breakfast at 7 a.m., program at 8 a.m.
Where: The STAR Church (7400 London Ave., Birmingham)
How much: $40+ (Register on MLKUnityBreakfast.eventbrite.com)
More details: Presented by The Community Affairs Committee
2. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute King Day Free Day
When: Monday, January 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Ticketing ends at 4 p.m.)
Where: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (520 16th St. N., Birmingham)
How much: Free! Reserve your spot on bcri.org
More details: In honor of MLK Day, The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is offering free entrance with special events happening all day long, including musical performances, a roundtable discussion, a genealogy workshop, and even a children’s painting workshop.
3. First Annual Living the Dream Fellowship Breakfast – Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
When: Thursday, January 15: Doors open at 7 a.m., program starts at 7:45 a.m.
Where: Alabama AGC Conference Center (5000 Grantswood Rd., Irondale)
How much: Tickets cost $25 and can be purchased on irondalecommunityfoundation.com.
More details: Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. is giving the keynote address.
4. Hands On MLK Day of Service with United Way
When: Monday, January 19 from 8 a.m. to noon
Where: Harrison Park & Recreation Center (901 17th St. S.W., Birmingham)
How much: Free (register on uwca.givepulse.com)
More details: It will be a collaborative effort to revitalize Harrison Park & Recreation Center.
5. MLK Day 5K Drum Run
When: Saturday, January 17: Registration begins at 7 a.m., the 5K/10K will begin at 8 a.m., and the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk will start at 9 a.m.
Where: 4th Avenue Historic District, History Park (1700 4th Ave. N.)
How much: $40–55 (Register on RunSignUp)
More details: The race will feature Birmingham drumlines from metro area schools to encourage runners. The pre-race activities include music, a warm-up, and inspiration in honor of MLK Jr.
6. Pre-MLK Day Program
When: Sunday, January 18 at 4 p.m.
Where: Sixth Avenue Baptist Church (1101 Martin Luther King Dr., Birmingham)
How much: Free
More details: Presented by The Community Affairs Committee
7. UAB’ MLK’s Beloved Community
When: Monday, January 19 from 9 a.m. to noon
Where: Student Assembly Building (1330 11th Ave. S., Birmingham)
How much: Free
More details: A community service opportunity focused primarily on UAB students.
