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MLK Weekend 2026 in Philly: AAMP, Please Touch, Constitution Center, and More Things to Do

Celebrate MLK weekend with free interactive workshops and enriching activities. Photo courtesy of The Please Touch Museum
Celebrate MLK weekend with free interactive workshops and enriching activities. Photo courtesy of The Please Touch Museum
1/14/26 - By Nicole O'Donnell

Looking for the best things to do in Philly this MLK Jr. weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your schedule.

Philly kids may have an extra day off from school. But, this day off means more than just 'no homework.' Recognize Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with one of the many opportunities to celebrate his legacy by visiting museums, attending service events, or doing some arts and crafts. 

After observing the holiday, don’t forget to check out our Best Free and Fun Things to Do in Philly this January. Whatever you do, make the most of the long weekend ahead.

More Things To Do in Philly this Week with Kids:

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Visit the sight where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his 1965 Freedom Now Tour speech. Photo courtesy of VisitPhilly.com
Visit the sight where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his 1965 Freedom Now Tour speech. Photo courtesy of VisitPhilly.com

Things to do in Philadelphia this Weekend with Kids

MLK 2026: Radical Peace and Public Memory: Youth Leadership, Gallery Talks, and Family Activities

FREE
Monday, January 19, 2026
Philadelphia
The day begins with an oratorical contest for high school juniors and seniors, hosted by the Thomas & Woods Foundation in AAMP’s Auditorium. Students will present original speeches reflecting on Dr. King’s legacy and the meaning of Radical Peace today.  READ MORE

MLK Weekend at the Museum of the American Revolution

Saturday to Monday, January 17 to 19, 2026
Philadelphia
Visit the Museum of the American Revolution during MLK Weekend to honor the life, service, and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Through theatrical performances, pop-up talks, discovery carts, and a poetry activity, visitors can discover the ongoing promise of the American Revolution and explore what it takes to change the world. READ MORE

Up Late With the Sphinx

Saturday, January 17, 2025
Philadelphia
Calling all kids and families! Have you ever wanted to explore the museum galleries after dark? Visit the Penn Museum and stay Up Late with the Sphinx for an evening filled with games and gallery activities. Drop into a hands-on workshop and make something special to take home, then finish your evening with a flashlight tour through the museum. Each ticket includes a special Penn Museum patch. This program is best suited for children ages 6-12. READ MORE

Overnight at the Adventure Aquarium

Sunday, January 18, 2026
Philadelphia
Skip the stress, skip the crowds, and give your family something unforgettable—a sleepover inside Adventure Aquarium!   Your family will enjoy a private-style experience because Overnight participation is capped, meaning more space, more access, and a truly rare opportunity you can’t get during daytime visits.   Why families love this: Limited attendance = no lines, no crowds A memory-packed experience the kids will rave about Registration closes soon!   Secure your family’s place before it’s gone! READ MORE

Free Admission to Benjamin Franklin Museum

FREE
Monday, January 19, 2026
Philadelphia
Visit the Benjamin Franklin Museum for free! Visitors can view the exhibits that reflect the contributions of this Founding Father for free on certain dates throughout the year. READ MORE

MLK Day at the Constitution Center

FREE
Monday, January 19, 2026
Philadelphia
The National Constitution Center honors the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with a full day of activities, "I have a dream" art activities, and story corners. Admission to the museum is free for the day.  READ MORE

Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Festival

Monday, January 19, 2026
Philadelphia
Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a family program that invites children and adults to learn, reflect, and create together. Families will learn how Dr. King and others took action for freedom and justice to ensure that all people are treated fairly and equally.  READ MORE

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Please Touch Museum

Monday, January 19, 2026
Philadelphia
Join the Please Touch Museum for activities and performances that highlight the importance of service, leadership, and activism. READ MORE

MLK Day of Edible Crafts Narberth

Monday, January 19, 2026
Philadelphia
The Candy Lab is open from 10am to 12pm on MLK Day. Sign up for a one hour time slot to make 6 yummy edible crafts.  READ MORE

The Civil Rights Movement: Finding Justice Weekend

Saturday to Monday, January 17 to 19, 2026
Philadelphia
This program explores the profound impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s writing and speaking, especially his transformative “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” READ MORE

MLK Day of Service 2026 at CORA

FREE
Monday, January 19, 2026
Philadelphia
Come together with your community to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King through family-centered service projects and acts of kindness. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, give back, and live out the spirit of Dr. King’s message of love and service. READ MORE
The Blue Cross RiverRink is one of many outdoor ice rinks around the city open for winter fun. Photo courtesy of the Delaware River Waterfront
The Blue Cross RiverRink is one of many outdoor ice rinks around the city open for winter fun. Photo courtesy of the Delaware River Waterfront

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About the Author

Nicole O'Donnell
Nicole O'Donnell is a marketing and social media expert with over 20 years of media experience and a proud mom to twin girls. A fan of writing, yoga, and exploring Philly, Nicole loves sampling the city's best treats with her girls in tow.
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