A Guide to MLK Day Celebrations in New Jersey: 2026 Edition
✨ MLK Day in New Jersey: Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with Service,
Not Just a Day Off
Every January, communities across New Jersey come together to celebrate NJ MLK Day by honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This is more than just a day off—it’s a day of action, reflection, and service. From volunteer opportunities to inspiring programs, there are countless NJ MLK events designed to bring people together and continue Dr. King’s mission of justice and equality.
Looking for NJ MLK events near you? Our guide highlights the most meaningful New Jersey MLK events happening across the state—whether you want to join a service project, attend a commemorative ceremony, or participate in community discussions. Discover how you can make an impact and keep Dr. King’s dream alive right here in New Jersey.
Northern New Jersey MLK Day Celebrations & Service Opportunities: 2026
YMCA of Newark 55th Anniversary Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast
Friday, January 9, 2026; @8am
The Robert Treat Hotel
50 Park Place
Newark NJ
Cost:
$45.00
The YMCA of Newark and Vicinity has honored the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The breakfast allows us to take time to remember and reflect on Dr. King's vision of a community and world of peace, love, and understanding. This is a wonderful opportunity to recommit ourselves to the high ideals that Dr. King personified.
MLK Day Film Screening
Saturday, January 17, 2026
Congressman Donald Payne l Meeting Center
33 Russell St
Vauxhall, NJ
A special MLK Day Film Screening honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This inspiring community event will feature thought-provoking films that celebrate civil rights, justice, and equality, offering a meaningful way to reflect on Dr. King's vision. Perfect for families, students, and residents of Union County, the screening provides an opportunity to come together, learn, and commemorate MLK Day in a powerful and engaging way. Don't miss this chance to be part of an uplifting cultural experience in Vauxhall, NJ.
MLK Day of Service Weekend Snack Pack Event
Saturday, January 17, 2026: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Community Baptist Church of Englewood
224 First Street
Englewood, NJ
This inspiring community service opportunity honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by bringing neighbors together to assemble snack packs for families and children in need. Located in the heart of Englewood, NJ, the event encourages volunteers of all ages to give back, promote unity, and make a positive impact. Whether you're searching for MLK Day volunteer events in Englewood, family-friendly service projects in New Jersey, or ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day through community service, this event is the perfect chance to serve, connect, and uplift others.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Coretta Scott King Classic
Monday, Januarary 19, 2026
Prudential Center
Newark, NJ
This inspiring annual event honors the legacy of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King with a day filled with unity, culture, and community pride. Fans and families from across New Jersey will gather in downtown Newark to enjoy live performances, special tributes, and exciting basketball matchups that highlight the spirit of equality and empowerment. Conveniently located at the Prudential Center, one of the premier venues in the region, the Coretta Scott King Classic offers an unforgettable way to commemorate MLK Day while experiencing the vibrant energy of Newark. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a historic celebration that blends sports, culture, and social impact in honor of Dr. King’s dream.
MLK Week of Service
Janyuary 19-23, 2026
Stevens Institute of Technology
1 Castle Point Terrace
Hoboken, NJ
This annual community event honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by bringing together students, faculty, and local residents for impactful volunteer projects, service opportunities, and educational programs. Located in the heart of Hoboken, Stevens Institute of Technology provides the perfect setting for participants to engage in meaningful service initiatives that promote unity, social justice, and civic responsibility. Whether you are a student, community member, or visitor, the MLK Week of Service offers a chance to celebrate Dr. King's vision while making a positive difference in Hoboken and beyond.
Community Day Martin Luther King Jr.: Stronger Together
Monday, January 19, 2026:12 PM - 5pm
The Newark Museum of Art
49 Washington St
Newark, NJ
Free Event
This inspiring event celebrates the legacy of Dr. King with engaging programs, family-friendly activities, and thought-provoking discussions that highlight unity, justice, and community empowerment. Located in the heart of Newark, the museum provides the perfect setting to honor Dr. King's vision of equality and togetherness. Whether you're a local resident or visiting New Jersey, this MLK Day celebration offers a meaningful way to connect, learn, and reflect on the importance of coming together as one community. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a powerful day of remembrance and action.
Jersey Cares Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service:"I Have A Dream" Walk
Monday, January 19, 2026; from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m
Millburn High School Track
462 Millburn Ave
Millburn, NJ
Join Jersey Cares for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service "I Have A Dream" Walk on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Millburn High School Track, 462 Millburn Ave, Millburn, NJ. This inspiring community event honors Dr. King's legacy of unity, service, and justice while bringing together volunteers, families, and neighbors to walk in solidarity for equality and positive change. The "I Have A Dream" Walk is part of Jersey Cares' annual MLK Day of Service, offering participants a meaningful way to reflect on Dr. King's vision and take action in their own communities. Whether you're a local resident, student, or visitor, this Millburn, NJ event provides an opportunity to celebrate civil rights, engage in service, and make a lasting impact.
Central New Jersey MLK Day Celebrations & Service Opportunities: 2026
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 37th Annual Commemorative Breakfast
Friday, January 16, 2026: 7:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club
20 Shore Oaks Drive
Farmingdale, NJ
This inspiring annual gathering honors the legacy of Dr. King with a morning of reflection, unity, and community engagement. Attendees will enjoy a meaningful program featuring keynote speaker Carmen Rubin, Children's Book Author & Playwright, uplifting messages, and opportunities to connect with local leaders and neighbors. Join in celebrating the vision of equality, justice, and service at one of New Jersey's most anticipated commemorative events.
MLK Day: Poster Making Workshop + Food Drive
Monday, January 19, 2025; 1pm - 3pm
Arts Council of Princeton
102 Witherspoon Street
Princeton, NJ
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through creativity and service by designing inspiring posters that honor his vision of equality and justice, while also supporting local families in need by contributing to the food drive. This family-friendly event combines art, activism, and giving back, making it a perfect way to engage with the Princeton community and reflect on Dr. King’s message of unity. Whether you’re an artist, volunteer, or neighbor, this workshop offers a hands-on opportunity to make a difference while commemorating MLK Day in Princeton.
45th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast
January 19, 2026 · 8am - 12pm
Hyatt Regency Princeton
102 Carnegie Center Drive
Princeton, NJ
This inspiring community event honors the legacy of Dr. King while raising funds to support educational scholarships for deserving students. Attendees will enjoy a morning of fellowship, keynote speakers, and recognition of local leaders who embody Dr. King's vision of equality, justice, and service. Conveniently located in the heart of Princeton, the Hyatt Regency provides the perfect setting for this impactful celebration of education, empowerment, and unity. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of one of New Jersey's most meaningful annual traditions.
Southern New Jersey MLK Day Celebrations & Service Opportunities: 2026
Burlington County 20th Annual MLK Day Challenge
Monday, January 19th, 2026:10 AM TO 3 PM
Burlington County Library- Main Branch
5 Pioneer Blvd.
Westampton, NJ
This inspiring community service event honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by bringing together volunteers, families, and organizations to make a positive impact across Burlington County. Attendees can participate in hands-on service projects, educational activities, and civic engagement opportunities designed to strengthen community bonds and promote Dr. King’s vision of equality and service. Join in for this meaningful day of action at the Burlington County Library and be part of one of New Jersey’s most impactful MLK Day of Service events.
Ocean City MLK National Day of Service
Monday, January 19, 2025: 9am to 12 PM
Music Pier
825 Boardwalk
Ocean City, NJ
This inspiring annual event honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by bringing residents and visitors together for meaningful volunteer opportunities, civic engagement, and community service projects.
Located right on the Ocean City Boardwalk, the Music Pier provides the perfect backdrop for a morning dedicated to unity, compassion, and positive action. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Jersey Shore, participating in the MLK Day of Service is a powerful way to give back, strengthen community bonds, and celebrate Dr. King’s vision of equality and service. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference while experiencing one of Ocean City’s most impactful events.
Rowan University Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Breakfast and Day of Service
Monday, January 19, 2026
Eynon Ballroom,
Chamberlain Student Center
201 Mullica Hill Road
Glassboro, NJ
This annual celebration honors the legacy of Dr. King through inspiring speakers, community engagement, and scholarship recognition for outstanding students. Attendees will enjoy a meaningful breakfast program featuring special guest, Dr. Myron Rolle, followed by service opportunities that embody Dr. King's vision of unity, justice, and civic responsibility. Whether you are a student, alumni, or community member, this event offers a powerful way to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day while supporting education and making a positive impact in South Jersey.
Stockton University Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
Monday, January 19, 2026; @ 9am
Stockton University
At the Galloway, Atlantic City, Woodbine, and Hammonton, NJ locations.
Stockton University proudly hosts its Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service bringing together students, faculty, alumni, and community members to honor Dr. King's legacy through volunteerism and civic engagement. This impactful event will take place across Stockton's multiple NJ locations, offering diverse service opportunities that strengthen local communities while promoting unity, justice, and equality. Join Stockton University in celebrating the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by participating in a day dedicated to service, reflection, and positive change in South Jersey.
