Monday, January 19th is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a moment for all of us to reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. King’s work for justice, equality, and community. Dr. King taught us that justice is not just a dream but a daily commitment, one that calls us to stand together, listen deeply, and act with compassion and courage.
As we honor his legacy, we invite you to get involved in your community — whether through service, advocacy, or learning opportunities that continue Dr. King’s vision in action. Explore upcoming events through The King Center or discover local volunteer opportunities at MLK Day of Service Page to find meaningful ways to serve and connect.
Delaware will honor MLK Day with some events:
Delaware Art Museum
Join Delaware Art Museum for a meaningful MLK Day of Service as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through reflection, community, and action. This year’s theme, “Illustrating the Dream,” draws inspiration from Imprinted: Illustrating Race, currently on view, and celebrates the transformative power of art to inspire social change!
With a special keynote address by Patty Jackson of WDAS, the event highlights include nonprofit community vendors, free fresh groceries provided by Delaware Urban Greens, Imprinted: Illustrating Race gallery tours, and a performance by the Wilmington Children’s Chorus. Throughout the day Tay the Creator will lead a hands-on art activity. Select artworks from this creative activity will be chosen for display at The Sold Firm Gallery (Wilmington, DE) throughout the month of February.
They will be hosting a coat and blanket drive to support families and individuals living at the unhoused community site in Christina Park. All donated items must be new. Donations may be dropped off at the Delaware Art Museum. Drop-offs are accepted at the front desk Wednesday through Sunday, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. A designated donation box will be available in the museum coatroom.
Be part of a community day rooted in inspiration, service, and connection.
Event Schedule
- 11:00 AM – Land Acknowledgment by Iz Balleto
- 11:05 AM – Performance by the Wilmington Children’s Chorus
- 11:25 AM – Keynote Address by WDAS’s Patty Jackson
- 11:45 AM – Introduction of Artist Instructor Tay the Creator and Sold Firm Gallery Owner Nataki Oliver
- 12:00 PM – 1:45 PM Imprinted & Social Justice Tours
YMCA of Delaware honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with events and free community open houses
The YMCA of Delaware invites the community to come together in 2026 to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through meaningful events and free open houses at all YMCA locations statewide.
These activities reflect the Y’s commitment to unity, service, and strengthening communities.
Free Open Houses at YMCA of Delaware Locations
Monday, January 19, 2026 | Martin Luther King Jr. Day
In honor of Dr. King’s legacy of service and inclusion, YMCA of Delaware locations will open their doors to the community for free MLK Day Open Houses. These family-friendly events will showcase the Y’s mission to strengthen communities and provide opportunities for all to belong.
Guests will enjoy access to YMCA facilities, fitness classes, activities for kids and families, and opportunities to learn more about programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Participating locations include:
- Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA – 351 George Williams Way, Newark, DE 19702
- Brandywine YMCA – 3 Mount Lebanon Road, Wilmington, DE 19803
- Central YMCA – 501 West 11th Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
- Dover YMCA – 1137 South State Street, Dover, DE 19901
- Middletown Family YMCA – 202 E. Cochran Street, Middletown, DE 19709
- Sussex Family YMCA – 20080 Church Street, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
- Western Family YMCA – 2600 Kirkwood Highway, Newark, DE 19711
- “Dr. King’s vision of unity, service, and justice continues to inspire the work we do every day at the YMCA,” said
Jarrett Royster, President & CEO of the YMCA of Delaware. “Opening our doors on MLK Day allows us to welcome thecommunity, honor his legacy, and reaffirm our commitment to serving all.” - Community members of all ages are encouraged to participate in the YMCA’s MLK celebrations, explore local Ys, and engage in activities that promote health, connection, and togetherness. For more information, visit www.ymcade.org
Delaware State University
Delaware State University and the Inner-City Cultural League, Inc., will hold its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration Program at 12 noon on Monday, Jan. 19, in the William B. DeLauder Education & Humanities Theatre on the DSU campus.
The event is free and open to the public.
The MLK Jr. Celebration Program will feature Dr. Brittany Hazzard, Supervisor of Instruction, Culture, and Wellness for the Capital School District, as its keynote speaker.
There will also be music performances by the Delaware State University Concert Choir, the Academy of Dover Student Choir, and the Sankofa African Drum Company.
The University and the Inner-City Cultural League, Inc., have jointly held this annual program to honor the memory and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. since 1987.
UPDATED – West End Neighborhood House and West Side Grows Together MLK Jr“Love Is Our Resistance”: Wilmington Grassroots Organizations & Neighbors Unite for 14th Annual MLK Day of Service.
Due to today’s snow, West End Neighborhood House and West Side Grows are adjusting their schedule for the 14th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Clean Up, Peace March & Celebration. Their decision was made with everyone’s safety in mind, as not all sidewalks may be salted or shoveled, and snow/sleet may be covering much of the litter, making clean-up conditions difficult and potentially unsafe.
What’s changed:
• The community clean up will NOT be happening on Monday, January 19th.
What’s still happening:
• The Peace March and Celebration will continue as planned.
• The organizations encourage all attendees to arrive by 11:30 AM to line up and prepare for the Peace March.
• Please note: the Peace March route may be altered for safety, depending on conditions.
They appreciate your flexibility and understanding as they prioritize everyone’s safety while still coming together to honor Dr. King’s vision of a Beloved Community.
