Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is celebrated on the third Monday of January. It honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a famous civil rights leader. He worked to make sure all people were treated fairly. Dr. King gave speeches and led peaceful marches. The holiday is a day to remember his dream of equality for everyone.

Who Was Dr. King?

Martin Luther King Jr. was born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia. He became a minister and a civil rights leader. He believed in solving problems without violence. In 1963, he gave his famous 'I Have a Dream' speech. He won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work.

A Day of Service

Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federal holiday in 1983. It is the only federal holiday called a National Day of Service. People are asked to help others in their community. Kids might clean up parks or help at food banks. Schools teach students about Dr. King's important work.

Fun Facts

• Dr. King was only 35 when he won the Nobel Peace Prize.
• His 'I Have a Dream' speech was given in front of the Lincoln Memorial.
• The holiday was first celebrated nationwide in 1986.

Did You Know?

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is one of only a few federal holidays that honors a single person.