There are many ways to observe MLK Day in Columbus, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his courageous and history-making work as a leader of the American civil rights movement. Below, we've highlighted just a few of the things happening for MLK Day in Columbus.
All events below take place on MLK Day (Monday, January 19, 2026) unless otherwise listed.
King Arts Complex. Source: Experience Columbus.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Open House
Jan. 19 | 12 pm - 4 pm | Free | Taking place at the Ohio History Center in partnership with the King Arts Complex
King Arts Complex and Ohio History Connection present their annual MLK Day Open House. Come and celebrate the life and legacy of civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, through visual and performing arts. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the impact of Dr. King’s teachings and how his work changed the trajectory of our country. Admission is free. Learn more.
MLK Jr. Day of Service
Jan. 19 | Starting at 9:30 am | Ohio Union
The Ohio State University Office of Student Life invites students, individuals and organizations to join in a day of service to honor the incredible legacy that Dr. King left on the world. Learn more.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Learning
Jan. 19 | 9 am - 4 pm | Free | Capital University
Join Capital University for its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Learning. This year's theme is Legacy of Courage: Celebrating the Voice that Inspired Change. With a keynote from Judge Laurel Beatty Blunt, thought-provoking workshops and a small business market, this is the perfect family-friendly event to attend this year. Lunch is provided. Learn more.
MLK Day of Youth Service with Seeds of Caring
Jan. 19 | Noon - 3 pm | Free | Taking place at the Ohio History Center, presented by Seeds of Caring
Seeds of Caring's Day of Service is part of the larger MLK Open House event put on by The King Arts Complex every year and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration at Ohio History Connection. There will be four different stations set up where kids, ages 2-12, can contribute to their community in meaningful ways in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Activities will include assembling cleaning kits for recently housed neighbors, making breakfast kits for kids experiencing food insecurity, creating sun catchers for senior friends to brighten their day, designing “Use Your Voice” posters, as well as a dream catcher reflection craft. Register for a timeslot.
41st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Breakfast
Jan. 19 | 7:30 - 10 am | Presented by the Martin Luther King Breakfast Committee, Inc., held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center
The City of Columbus takes great pride in its observance of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Start your day with an uplifting message of hope, a celebration of life, and unity. Join the Martin Luther King Breakfast Committee for food, fellowship, and light as they celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Advanced registration is required at $65 per ticket.
