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.
City of Columbus MLK Day March & Program
Jan. 19 | 3 pm | Free | March begins at St. Paul AME Church, program at the Lincoln Theatre
Columbus’ annual MLK Day March & Program returns January 19 and is open to the public. The event begins with a community march kicking off at 3 pm, followed by a commemorative program at 4:30 pm at the historic Lincoln Theatre. Centered around the theme One Dream: Many Voices, the afternoon brings together residents from across Central Ohio for reflection, unity, and civic engagement. Learn more.
6th Annual MLK March in Linden
Jan. 19 | 11 am | Free | North Columbus Preparatory Academy
Community members are invited to take part in the 6th annual MLK March through the Linden neighborhood. Participants will gather at North Columbus Preparatory Academy before marching to the Point of Pride Corner at Cleveland and 11th avenues. The event will feature keynote speaker Brian Winston and offers a meaningful way to honor Dr. King’s legacy at the neighborhood level.
Westerville Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast Celebration
Jan. 19 | 8:30 am | Ticketed | Renaissance Columbus Westerville–Polaris Hotel
The Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce presents its Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast Celebration. This year’s theme, Hope Through Action, sets the stage for thoughtful conversation and reflection, featuring panelists Floyd Akins, Jeremy Hollon and Jen Miller. The event invites attendees to engage with Dr. King’s enduring message through dialogue and community connection. Advance ticket purchase is required.
