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. 19 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. Some of these events are geared toward U of I students.
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.

Local observances are listed on our calendar, although some are not actually on Jan. 19.
Recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at these events near Champaign-Urbana
Date: 01/18/2026 Date: 01/19/2026 Date: 01/19/2026 Date: 01/19/2026 Date: 01/19/2026 Date: 01/20/2026 Date: 01/19/2026 Date: 01/19/2026 Date: 01/19/2026 Date: 01/20/2026 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
The Vineyard Church
1500 N Lincoln Ave, UrbanaMLK Day at Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
212 N. Sixth St, SpringfieldMLK Day of Service at KayBee
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
KayBee Community Cafe
102 E Lafayette St, MonticelloMartin Luther King Jr Day of Service
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
McKinley Foundation
410 E. Daniel St., ChampaignAll-You-Can-Eat Specialty Lunch Buffet Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Neil Street Blues
301 N Neil St, Champaign Looking for more things to do on MLK Day?
MLK Day of Service at KayBee
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
KayBee Community Cafe
102 E Lafayette St, MonticelloMLK 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, SavoyAll-You-Can-Eat Specialty Lunch Buffet Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Neil Street Blues
301 N Neil St, Champaign




