Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Charleston

We’ve rounded up several ways to spend Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the Holy City.

Screen Shot 2021-01-15 at 12.19.13 PM

Martin Luther King, Jr. addresses a crowd to encourage voter participation in Kingstree, SC on May 8, 1966. | Photo courtesy of The State Newspaper Photograph Archive at Richland Library.

Today, Jan. 20, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday on the third Monday of January. The theme for this year is “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365,” according to The King Centera nonprofit founded by MLK’s wife, Coretta Scott King, to continue Dr. King’s legacy.

Here’s a look at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ties to the Palmetto State — keep reading for ways to honor his legacy here in the Holy City.

Parades

  • MLK Day Parade | Monday, Jan. 20 | 9 a.m.
    The downtown parade route will run from Burke High School to Mother Emanuel AME Church. The event will also be televised live and streamed online on WCBD News 2.
  • North Charleston MLK Day Parade | Monday, Jan. 20 | 3 p.m.
    The second annual North Charleston parade will start at 2950 Carner Ave. and will end at 3725 Rivers Ave.
CHS_IAAM_MARCH2023

The International African American Museum is located at 14 Wharfside St.

Photo by @mattwoolseysc

Reflect

  • IAAM King: A Day of Service | Monday, Jan. 20 | 12 –5 p.m
    Experience musical performances, shop local vendors + food trucks, and youth-friendly activities that focus on unity.
  • Free admission | Regular museum hours 10 a.m.– 4 p.m.
    Explore the museum’s exhibitions for free and learn about stories of resilience.

Volunteer

If you have time to dedicate to our community, here are a few local volunteer opportunities:

  • Habitat for Humanity | Build homes for the community.
  • Trident United Way | Assist its mission of fostering education, financial stability, and health in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties.

Looking for other ways to get involved? Check out more local volunteer opportunities.

Events
From award-wining country artists to chart-topping bands, there’s no shortage of concerts to enjoy live music in the Holy City this year — use this guide to find your next concert.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Charleston, SC has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
Mena Mark Hanna shares what’s new, what’s exciting, and why Spoleto Festival USA 2025 is a can’t-miss.
Sponsored
This Palmetto Community Care fundraiser is making its return to Charleston after a three-year hiatus — and this year, tickets are all-inclusive.
From jazz and opera to dance and physical theater, here’s one can’t-miss Spoleto Festival USA event from each genre to help you plan your festival lineup.
From outdoor concerts and art exhibitions to sand sculpting and potlucks, explore some of the best regional and local talent with these can’t-miss Piccolo Spoleto free events running May 23 through June 8.