9 ways to celebrate MLK Day 2026 in Birmingham

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (MLK Day) is more than just a day off—it’s a chance to honor one of history’s greatest leaders through events focused on reflection and celebration.

Birmingham has many events scheduled for MLK Day weekend, all designed to bring the community together and continue Dr. King’s legacy.

Read on to see what’s ahead and start planning.

Go here for what’s open + closed in Birmingham on MLK Day (Monday, January 9).

1. City of Irondale’s 1st Annual “Living the Dream” Fellowship Breakfast

• What: Get your tickets for this first annual event hosted by the City of Irondale. Join others for a morning of reflection, inspiration and community fellowship. You’ll also hear from keynote speaker Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr., Irondale’s first African American mayor.
• When: Thurs, Jan. 15 | Doors open at 7AM, Program begins at 7:45AM
• Where: Alabama AGC Conference Center
• Cost: $25
• Details

2. MLK Day 5K/10K Drum Run

• What: Get moving this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the 10th Annual MLK Race! Fellowship, fun, and fitness come together as runners and walkers unite to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy through community and movement. Live drumlines from Birmingham-area schools will pump you up along the course with each group receiving a donation to support their band boosters.
• When: Sat, Jan. 16
  • 5K + 10K: 8AM-10:30AM
  • 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk (Adult + Youth): 9AM-10:30AM
• Where: 1700 4th Ave N, Birmingham
• Cost: 
  • 5K: $40
  • 10K: $50
  • 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk (Adult + Youth): $20
  • Price increases after Jan. 16.
• Details

3. MLK ‘I Have A Dream’ Mobile Craft

• What: Give your kiddo the chance to share their dreams for the world world. During this event, they’ll get to create and decorate a mobile to take home. *No registration required. 
• When: Fri, Jan. 16 | 9AM-6PM
• Where: Birmingham Public Library, Southside Branch
• Cost: Free
• Details

4. Beyond Good Intentions: Becoming Trustworthy White Allies

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• What: Take part in the 23rd annual Begin the Day: The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Lecture featuring Mealnie S. Morrison, writer, speaker and racial justice educator. This inspiring and thought-provoking lecture will explore how white people who aspire to be antiracist allies can develop the courage, strength and resiliency to become committed, long-term advocates for racial justice.
• When: Sat, Jan. 17 | 11AM
• Where: Birmingham Public Library, Avondale Regional Branch
• Cost: Free
• Details

5. 40th Annual MLK Day Unity Breakfast

• What: Be part of this celebration honoring Dr. King’s legacy and continuing the work and service of Aaron Carlton, whose visionary leadership and dedication helped shape this event 40 years ago. This year’s theme, “Putting Things Back Into Perspective,” reflects on rebuilding and strengthening unity within the community. The event will include a continental breakfast and an inspiring program focused on reflection, hope, and action.
• When: Mon, Jan. 19 | 7AM
• Where: The STAR Church
• Cost: $44.52
• Details

6. MLK Day Litter Cleanup (District 1)

• What: Do something good for the Birmingham community this MLK Day by joining Black Warrior Riverkeeper for a day of cleanup service. Children are allowed, but must be accompanied by an adult. Garbage bags and gloves + litter pickers will be provided.
  • What to wear/bring: comfortable clothing (preferably long pants), protective mask, closed-toed shoes + water.
• When: Monday, Jan. 19 | 9AM
• Where: 421 Red Lane Road, Birmingham
• Cost: Free
• Details + RSVP

7. King Day

• What:  This is also a great volunteer opportunity. Find out how.
  • 10:30AM: Carlton Reese Choir Performance
  • 11AM: Roundtable Discussion: King’s Legacy in Birmingham, Moderated by Barry McNealy
  • 12:30PM, 1:30PM + 2:30PM: Genealogy Workshops
  • 2PM-4PM: Children’s Painting Workshop with Studio 2500
  • 3:30PM: Classified Alias Music Performance
• When: Mon, Jan. 19 | 10AM-5PM
• Where: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
• Cost: Free
• Details

8. MLK Day with the Birmingham Bulls

• What: See the Birmingham Bulls hit the ice this MLK Day during a must-see game against the Huntsville Havoc. The first 1,000 kids ages 14 and under will get a Bulls mini stick! Be sure to stick around until the final buzzer for the chance to skate with the team. 
• When: Monday, Jan. 19 | 1PM
• Where: Pelham Civic Complex
• Cost: $21+
• Details + Tickets

9. MLK Day of Service: Harrison Park + Recreation Center Revitalization

• What: Gather with Hands On staff for a day of service honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This event will help transform Harrison Park + Recreation Center into a cleaner, safer and more welcoming space for the community. All skill levels are welcome to attend, but note that activities will include light to moderate physical work like cleaning, raking + lifting. 
• When: Mon, Jan. 19 | 8AM-12PM
• Where: Harrison Park + Recreation Center
• Cost: Free
• Details + Register

Are there more ways to honor MLK Day 2026 in Birmingham? Let us know what we missed on social at @bhamnow.