Portland families have wonderful opportunities to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy this year through community-focused, family-appropriate events around the city. Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Monday, January 19, 2026, and many activities emphasize service, reflection, and togetherness. These are perfect for involving kids and teaching values like equity, community, and helping others.
Here are some standout family-friendly options happening in and near Portland:
Urban League of Portland’s MLK Day Brunch
This annual community breakfast celebrates Dr. King’s enduring legacy, with reflections, a call to action, and inspiration drawn from his life and work. It is a meaningful gathering that brings together families, leaders, and advocates to recommit to justice and equity. While it is a formal brunch, it is welcoming and educational for all ages.
- Date and Time: Monday, January 19, 2026, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Location: Oregon Convention Center (Ballroom 251 & 258), 777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Portland
- Details: This event is currently listed as sold out, but check for any updates or waitlist options.
- Link: https://ulpdx.org/events/2026/2026-urban-league-portland-mlk-day-brunch or https://www.oregoncc.org/attend/events/2026/01/urban-league-portlands-mlk-day-brunch
Portland Parks & Recreation Open Hours at Community Centers
Many Portland Parks & Recreation centers stay open on MLK Day, offering a low-key way for families to enjoy indoor activities, play spaces, or drop-in programs. These centers often feature community murals (like those honoring Dr. King) and provide a safe, fun environment for kids to learn and play while reflecting on the day.
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026 (hours typically 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at select locations)
- Key Locations:
- Charles Jordan Community Center
- East Portland Community Center
- Matt Dishman Community Center
- Details: Great for families seeking casual, free, or low-cost recreation with an MLK theme in the background.
- Link: https://www.portland.gov/parks/recreation/events/2026/1/19/martin-luther-king-jr-day-open-hours
MLK Days of Service and Volunteer Opportunities
MLK Day is a national Day of Service, and Portland-area groups offer hands-on projects ideal for families. These include cleanups, tree planting, and community help, activities that teach kids about giving back in Dr. King’s spirit.
- SOLVE Oregon MLK Day Projects: Environmental cleanups and beautification across the region, family-friendly and open to all ages. Examples include community orchard cleanups, forest restoration at Mary S. Young Park in West Linn, and neighborhood gatherings.
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026 (and surrounding days)
- Details: Browse and register for specific projects; many still have openings.
- Link: https://www.solveoregon.org/mlk or https://volunteer.solveoregon.org/mlk
- PDX Parent Roundup of Service and Community Events: Includes neighborhood tree planting with Friends of Trees along the MLK Corridor (January 17), family-oriented cleanups, craft activities at libraries (like button-making and kindness art in Tigard), forest restoration, and celebrations like “Keep Alive the Dream” with performances and community displays.
- Dates: Various from January 13 to 19, 2026
- Details: Many free events focused on volunteering, art, and reflection.
- Link: https://pdxparent.com/volunteer-mlk-day-of-service
Other nearby options add a thoughtful touch for older kids, such as the Interfaith Vigil Celebration at the University of Portland on Sunday, January 18 (with gospel music and reflections, open to the public).
Events fill up quickly, so visit the linked websites soon to confirm details, register, or check for tickets/waitlists. Participating in these helps keep Dr. King’s dream alive right here in Portland through service, learning, and community connection. Happy MLK Day!
