Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Pierce County

We will be closed on Monday, January 15th in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This is a day to reflect on Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and unity. As advocates for thriving communities, we recognize the significance of commemorating this remarkable leader and the positive changes he inspired.

Join us in celebrating MLK Day 2024 by attending one of the many events taking place throughout Pierce County this weekend designed to honor Dr. King’s legacy and teachings -- as well as community members who have continued his work.

Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast
Celebrate at the 16th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast from 8:00 - 10:30 am at the University of Washington-Tacoma in the William W. Phillip Hall. This event not only honors Dr. King’s contributions but also fosters unity, hope, and celebration among UW Tacoma students, faculty, staff, and our vibrant surrounding communities.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Caring
Honor the legacy of Dr. King by enhancing community green spaces in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Caring event. Improve the habitat at a local restoration site to help support wildlife, pollinators, and water quality by removing invasive vegetation and caring for native plants. This event will be from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm and sites include Deadman’s Pond in Puyallup, Silver Creek in Puyallup, and Whittier Park in Fircrest.

MLK Day of Service - Point Defiance Park
Honor Dr. King and his legacy through service at Point Defiance Park’s MLK Day of Service from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. Strengthen the ties to the community while caring for local parks and public spaces. Enhance beauty, visibility, habitat, and safety by working together to remove shrubs, weeds, and other groundcover at important areas near the main Pearl Street entrance.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Commemoration
Enjoy theatre performances at the Washington History Museum from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm for free as they bring to life Dr. King’s legacy. Tacoma Arts Live presents Where Blooming Flowers Meet the Sky by Darryin B. Cunningham, a performance that’s free to view and for all ages. The Museum is open until 5 pm and admission is free for MLK Day. You can also enjoy their online exhibit “Black Washington” from the comfort of your home! Click here to explore further.

Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration
Starting at 11:00 am, the Events & Recognition Committee of Tacoma selects individuals or groups that exemplify Dr. King’s teaching and action in community service in this event that honors the community and Dr. King’s legacy. Nominees represent people of all backgrounds who work in pursuit of hope, healing, and sustainable peace. There are also live performances, and inspiring speeches from community members. (Arrive early for a community fair). Held at the Tacoma Convention Center.

State and National Parks are Free
Although not an event, all Washington state parks and national parks are free on Monday. This includes Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks - but make sure to be on the lookout for any closures due to the recent weather.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day offers us a moment to reflect on the profound impact of Dr. King’s legacy and encourages us to take meaningful action in our communities. Pierce County is brimming with commemorations and activities for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, providing a range of events, speakers, demonstrations, lessons, community engagement, and more.