[Bee Calder, Unsplash]

A New Orleans Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Weekend Guide

07:00 January 16, 2025
By: Ayanna Lovelady

Honor & Unity

New Orleans comes together to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a powerful series of cultural, artistic, and community events that embody his vision of unity and service.


MLK-Day Events


1. National Conference of Artists MLK Art Exhibition | Through March 31

Experience the 2025 National Conference of Artists MLK Jr. Commemorative Art Exhibition at Rosa F. Keller Library Gallery (4300 South Broad St.). This year's "A Time to Break Silence: African Roots/American Fruits" exhibition, which has an opening reception on Saturday, January 18 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., explores connections between African heritage and American culture. Featured artist Larry Ra leads "BRAVE: An Art Exhibit," alongside works from local and national artists, complemented by live performances and panel discussions on cultural identity and social justice.

2. Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Choral Concert | Jan 16, 6 P.M.

Join the University of New Orleans for their annual Martin Luther King Jr. Choral Concert at the University Center Ballroom. The evening features moving performances by local choirs and soloists celebrating Dr. King's legacy through gospel, spirituals, and freedom songs. The concert brings together voices from across the community for an inspirational night of music and remembrance. Admission is free and open to the public.

3. MLK Shabbat at Temple Sinai | Jan 17, 6:15 P.M.

There will be a special interfaith celebration at Temple Sinai (6227 St. Charles Ave.) featuring New Voices New Orleans choir, Loyola Gospel choir, and Spirit of New Orleans Gospel choir, with remarks from Rev. Herbert Brisbon III, director of the National Center for Black Jewish Relations at Dillard University. This free community event, organized by the Temple Sinai congregation, welcomes all to join in lifting their voices and honoring Dr. King's legacy of unity and understanding.

4. National Juried MLK Exhibition Opening Reception | Jan 18, 12 P.M.

Experience the National Conference of Artists MLK Jr. Commemorative Art Exhibition at Ashé Cultural Arts Center, honoring civil rights leaders Doratha "Dodie" Smith Simmons and Jerome "Big Duck" Smith. This year's theme, "A Time to Break Silence: African Roots/American Fruits," showcases works from artists nationwide, exploring connections between African heritage and American culture through art exhibitions, musical performances, and insightful discussions designed to engage and inspire.

5. A Tale of God's Will (A Requiem for Katrina) | Jan 18, 8 P.M.

Watch GRAMMY-winning composer and New Orleans native Terence Blanchard perform his powerful piece, A Tale of God's Will (A Requiem for Katrina) in honor of the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Alongside the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Blanchard explores themes of resilience and recovery through this piece, featuring Blanchard's sextet and a visual tapestry by Andrew F. Scott. This event will be held at the Orpheum Theater.

6. 39th Annual Memorial Service | Jan 19, 12 P.M.

The 39th annual MLK Memorial Service at Holy Faith Temple Baptist Church (1325 Governor Nicholls St.) will feature dynamic speeches from local dignitaries, civil rights leaders, and community activists. This impactful event includes gospel performances, spoken word pieces, and a screening of Walking in Their Footsteps, a short documentary highlighting local civil rights contributions.

7. St. Augustine Church Day of Service | Jan 20, 9 A.M.

Join the Friends of Tremé Culture (FOTC) at St. Augustine Catholic Church for MLK Day of Service. Volunteers will help clean the historic church's interior from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., preparing it for renovation after damage from Hurricane Ida. At noon, FOTC will distribute grants to 14 local organizations from proceeds of the 9th Annual Tremé Fall Festival, supporting cultural preservation and community development.

8. MLK Day Parade in Central City | Jan 20, 10 A.M.

Join the community for the annual MLK Day Parade starting at A.L. Davis Park (2600 LaSalle St). The march proceeds through Central City, ending at the MLK statue at S. Claiborne and MLK Boulevard. All are welcome to participate and bring signs celebrating Dr. King's legacy. Admission is free for this family-friendly event.


Community Impact

These events not only honor Dr. King's memory but also continue his work through community service, cultural preservation, and fostering dialogue across diverse groups. From artistic expressions to hands-on service projects, each event offers unique ways to engage with his enduring message of hope and unity.

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