40th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration

You are invited to join a united front and shape Minnesota’s tomorrow.

Lobby Opens at 9:00 Program Begins at 10:00 AM

Audience: General public, elected officials, and community leaders

Program: Join us on Monday, January 19, 2026, for the grand finale of Minnesota’s 40th Anniversary MLK Holiday celebration—a closing show that brings together artistry, storytelling, and community honor under one roof. Reserve your seat and be part of a historic moment—when we stand together, our shared rhythm becomes the heartbeat of a more just and inclusive One Minnesota." This year marks the 40th anniversary of our state’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday celebration—one of the longest-running and largest in the nation. From Rochester to Red Lake, communities across Minnesota will gather to honor Dr. King’s enduring legacy and bring his vision to life in our neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

Dr. King reminded us, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’” This milestone occasion invites Minnesotans to answer that question together—with courage, creativity, and care. Through collective learning, civic dialogues, connective programming, and calls to action, we transform a one-day holiday into a weeklong wave of positive forward motion across differences and diasporas to last the year.

The 40th anniversary series centers unity and amplifies opportunities for community and civic engagement. Explore the full lineup below—then invite your neighbors, family, and friends. When we stand as one, we carry our dreams forward into a more just and inclusive One Minnesota.

All events are being hosted by the State of Minnesota and the Governor’s Council on the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday.

Seating in the Concert Hall is not guaranteed. Late coming patrons may be seated in overflow area. Event will be close-circuit televised to overflow area.