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
Date: 01/19/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Date: 01/20/2025 Annual Countywide Dr. MLK, Jr. Celebration
Time: 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
500 South Goodwin Avenue, UrbanaMartin Luther King Jr. Annual Unity Breakfast
Time: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
The Vineyard Church
1500 N Lincoln Ave, UrbanaMartin Luther King Jr. Family Day of Service
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
McKinley Foundation
410 E. Daniel St., ChampaignMLK Day at Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
Time: 10:30 am - 1:30 pm
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
212 N. Sixth St, SpringfieldLooking for more things to do on MLK Day?
Preschool Open Gym | Advance Registration Required
Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
I-Power Preschool Academy
221 S Staley Ave, ChampaignMLK Day Skate at UI Ice Arena
Time: 11:30 am - 2:00 pm
University of Illinois Ice Arena
406 E. Armory, ChampaignMLK Day - No School Skate
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Skateland Savoy
208 W Curtis Road, SavoyMovie Matinee | Rantoul Public Library
Time: 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Rantoul Public Library
106 W. Flessner, RantoulKids Box Create
Time: 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Allerton Public Library
4000 Green Apple Lane, Monticello