Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Champaign-Urbana and Central Illinois

Discover the events happening in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Champaign-Urbana

And other ways to enjoy a long weekend with your family in Champaign-Urbana

Looking for family fun over the long weekend observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Champaign-Urbana? We’re here to help! Almost all schools, preschools, and even many daycares are closed in observance of MLK Jr. Day, which is Jan. 20 this year. Add the University of Illinois to that, and it’s a rare opportunity to enjoy some family time together.

So what should you do? We’ve provided you with some ideas for fun events that are close. We’ve also provided a list of events related to Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. As a reminder, this is the week the University of Illinois students return to campus; some of these events are geared toward that population.

If you’re looking for a fun and inexpensive day trip, check out our article about MLK Day in Indianapolis, where there are many excellent attractions open with thematic events appropriate for the day.

(If you want to know what is open and what is closed on MLK Jr. Day, we’ve got you covered.)

Local observances are listed on our calendar, although some are not actually on Jan. 20.

Recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at these events near Champaign-Urbana