The legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. continues to shape our understandings of justice and civil rights in America. This year, the holiday honoring the activist falls on January 20. Here’s our list of Bay Area events to mark the holiday, celebrate BIPOC innovation and participate in the fight toward racial equity.
MLK Noontime Concert
Jan 14
For the second year, NorcalMLK Foundation is partnering with Noontime Concerts to honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy led by pianist Carl Blake and with special guests including soprano Hope Briggs, violinist Joseph Edelberg, pianist Daniel Glover, baritone Bradley Kynard and flutist William Underwood. The concert will take place at Old St. Mary’s Cathedral, 660 California Street in San Francisco at 12:30 p.m.
25th Annual Marin City Dr. MLK Jr. Celebration
Jan 20
The Marin City Community Service District presents this year’s Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration following a theme called “Voices of Change, Empowering a New Generation.” This celebration will feature music, powerful speeches, youth presentations and more. Celebrants can gather at the Marin City Community Center at 630 Drake Avenue from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information, contact Florence Williams at 415.332.1441.
Liberation Film Festival
Jan 18-20
The Liberation Film Festival screens thought-provoking documentary and film to inspire social change and reflection. The festival is organized in partnership with California Newsreel, a non-profit documentary center which distributes film for social and racial justice. Screening locations and times are TBA.
The Black & Brown Comix Arts Festival
January 18-20
For over 10 years, the Black & Brown Comix Arts Festival (BCAF) has celebrated BIPOC creativity in the comic arts. Panel discussions, a party at the Cartoon Art Museum and a grand expo are the highlights of this three-day event. If you’re 21+, join the Cosplay Soirée, an evening where comics enthusiasts can connect while dressed in costume.
MLK March and Music Festival
Jan 15
Every year, Bay Area residents honor the march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, with their own march. The route begins at 11 a.m. and winds from the Caltrain station to the Yerba Buena Gardens, where the MLK Music Festival follows. Transit to the event will be free with registration if you’re taking Caltrain, BART, SFMTA or Golden Gate Ferries.
Oakland Day of Service
Jan 20
Congress classifies MLK Day not just as a federal holiday but as a day of service. Oakland promotes multiple opportunities to give back this MLK weekend through trash cleanup, habitat restoration, blood drives and more. An interactive map is available to see where and when community service events occur.
