Things to do in Akron area on Martin Luther King Day in 2026

This story has been updated to correct the date for the Jelani Cobb speech at the Akron-Summit County Public Library.

Greater Akron organizations have numerous events lined up to commemorate the memory and lessons of civl right leader the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Day is Jan. 19 this year, and programs are planned in the region for the day, as well as the weekend leading up to the federal holiday.

The annual Power, Love Justice Weekend will include a MLK Female Youth Symposium on Jan.17 at Buchtel Community Learning Ceenter, with doors opening at 10 a.m. The symposium will touch on many topics impacting young girls between the age of 13-24 such as relationships, college, mental health and more.

“We are creating a space where young women feel seen, heard and empowered to step confidently into who they are and who they are becoming,” said Dreama Whitfield, lead member of the planning subcommittee.

That same day, the the MLK Male Summit for young men ages 11 to 17 will take place 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Akron Urban League. The event is “a safe, empowering space to learn, ask questions and build confidence,” according to organizers.

Also on Jan. 17, the Power, Love Justice Weekend will hold its Rising to Meet the Moment Gospel Concert featuring the Chicago Mass Choir. The concert will begin at 4 p.m. at The Faith Place, 90 Easter Ave, Akron. Tickets are $30 or $25 for those ages 24 and younger.

Visit for more information and to buy tickets.

On Jan. 18, The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Day Coalition will present its annual program at 4 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Akron UCC, 292 E. Market St. in Akron.This free event was established in 1979. This year’s theme is “Keeping Dr. King’s dream alive through advocacy and community growth.”

Pastor Vincent Peterson of Providence Baptist Church will be the keynote speaker. The celebration will also feature a gospel choir performance, community youth reciting portions of King’s speeches and remarks from Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Akron NAACP President Judi Hill.

Also on Jan. 18, Akron-Summit County Public library is hosting a free MLK lecture with Dr. Jelani Cobb starting at 2 p.m. Cobb is the Columbia Journalism School Dean, a Peabody Award-winning journalist and one of today’s leading voices on race, justice, and American democracy.

The Power Love Justice Weekend also includes a “Day of Doing” on Jan. 19. Sign up at https://mlkakron.org/#dayofdoing

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Other Jan. 19 Akron-area Martin Luther King Day events:

Free admission to Cleveland attractions on MLK Day

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is offering free admission, extended hours and a full lineup of live performances and activities on Jan. 19 starting at 9 a.m.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History has free admission on Jan. 19 at 10 a.m. and will host activities based about MLK.
Cleveland Botanical Garden will have free admission Jan. 19 and open at 10 a.m. Families and friends can enjoy their exotic glasshouses and play in their Perennial Play space to learn more about plants and trees.

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