Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is a national initiative focused on strengthening communities, building connections across differences, and working together to create positive change. As the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service, this meaningful day invites families to learn, reflect, and take action in honor of Dr. King’s legacy. We’ve rounded up a list of engaging and free ways your family can participate, learn, and give back together. Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on January 19, 2026. Scroll on for details on events happening around Austin.

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— MLK Day March, Festival, and Food Drive @ Huston-Tillotson University 

Monday, January 19 | 9:30 am March; Festival from 11 am – 3 pm 

Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with Austin’s Annual MLK Community March and Festival. The day begins with a rally at the Texas State Capitol at 9:30 am, followed by a community march honoring Dr. King’s legacy of unity, service, and justice. The celebration continues at Huston-Tillotson University with a free, family friendly festival featuring local vendors, live music, and plenty of ways to come together as a community. The festival runs from 11 am to 3 pm, and performing artists will be announced soon.

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MLK Food Drive @ Pease Park 

Monday, Janaury 19 | 9:30 am – 4 pm 

Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day by giving back at a community donation drive hosted by Pease Park Conservancy at Pease Park. Families are invited to drop off non perishable food items, diapers, and period products to support neighbors in need. Donations will be delivered to the Micah 6 food pantry and the Austin Diaper Bank. 

Requested and accepted donations include healthy cereals, canned vegetables, canned meats, canned soups and beans, peanut butter, packages juice (unrefrigerated), and packaged milk (unrefrigerated). Volunteer shifts are also available throughout the day for those who want to lend a hand on site. Get more info here. 

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— MLK Day Parade & Street Festival in Leander (Cedar Park Recreation Center, 1435 Main St. )

Monday, January 19 | 10 am – 2 pm| FREE

In collaboration with the Leander Public Arts and Culture Commission, the City of Leander observes and honors the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a march and celebration. The March will be at 10 am, followed by Mainstage performances from 11 am – 2pm.  The celebration will feature performances from dancers, musicians, and spoken word artists. Get all the info here. 

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— MLK Events in San Marcos 

MLK Kids Event
January 18 at 10:30 am
Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a family friendly event hosted by the Dunbar Heritage Association. Kids can enjoy books, art, videos, and hands on crafts, including making posters for the annual MLK Day March. Designed for children from pre k through middle school. All materials provided. Registration required by January 11 here. 

MLK Walk and Celebration
January 20 at 9:30 am
Join the Dunbar Heritage Association for its annual MLK Walk and Celebration, beginning with a wreath laying ceremony at the LBJ/MLK Crossroads Memorial. The walk continues through the Dunbar neighborhood, followed by a brief program at the Historic Hays County Courthouse and a reception at the Dunbar Recreation Center.