NEW YORK CITY — This Jan. 19 is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federally recognized holiday commemorating the values that defined the American Civil Rights leader’s character — justice, compassion, dignity, nonviolence and service.
Family-friendly events and volunteering opportunities scatter the boroughs this week and weekend, including activities like taking care of the local public trees with the Parks department, participating in a tribute to King at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and so much more.
Here’s a list of things to do below.
Young People’s Chorus Honors MLK Day
The Young People’s Chorus will sing a moving tribute to King at the Brick Presbyterian Church on the Upper East Side, featuring baritone Lester Lynch and Broadway actor Nikki Renée Daniels.
Where: 1140 Park Ave., New York, NY 10128When: Jan. 17, 4 p.m.MLK Day At The Apollo Theater
The Apollo Theater in Harlem is hosting two events that pay homage to King — a tribute that includes a conversation and performance hosted by WNYC and the Apollo, and a tribute and series of dialogues for children and teens about activism, education and misinformation.
Where: 253 West 125th St., New York, NY 10027When: Jan. 18 and Jan. 19. Prep Care Packages, Food Bags And Hygiene Kits
Spend a few hours on a service project like prepping care packages of food and toiletries for neighbors in need at different sites throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan hosted by UJA, a Jewish philanthropic organization.
Where: Across the five boroughsWhen: Jan. 19 at various times, learn more here.Take Care Of Your Local Park With The NYC Parks Department
The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation is hosting several volunteering events at neighborhood green spaces this weekend — like parks, community gardens and street tree pits— for New Yorkers looking to improve their communities with a little elbow grease.
Where: All five boroughsWhen: All weekend long, more information here. The 40th Annual Tribute To MLK At Brooklyn Academy Of Music
Celebrate the life and legacy of King with artists, community leaders and Brooklynites at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II will give a tribute and the Fire Ensemble will give a musical performance. There is also a day of activities for kids at BAM that explores themes of diversity and justice through arts and movement.
Where: 30 Lafayette Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11217When: Jan. 19, 10:30 a.m.2026 MLK Day Celebration: The Whole Human Family
Join the New York Society for Ethical Culture for a multigenerational afternoon of music, storytelling, dance, and hands-on workshops centered on justice, dignity and community. The program includes family activities, concerts, open mic performances, creative workshops, birthday cake, and a culminating peace march, with pre-registration encouraged for select sessions.
Where: 2 W 64th St., New York, NY 10023When: Jan. 19, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For questions and tips, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.