Updated: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Jump to: MLK Day Austin March| MLK Weekend Activities (Jan 15 – 18) | MLK Day of Service Austin
MLK Day Austin is more than a day off. It’s a full citywide “day on,” with a community march, a festival, service projects, and programs that run through MLK weekend.
Here are some of the most anticipated events for MLK day Austin this 2026:
Editor’s Note: We update this guide each week with verified listings from trusted sources. Still, details can change — please confirm with the event organizer before heading out.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
MLK Day Austin March, Rally & Festival
MLK Commemorative Walk and Celebration, Round Rock
Image credit: Round Rock, Texas – City Government
Commemorate Dr. King’s legacy at Round Rock’s 39th annual walk and celebration. The afternoon begins with a community march at 1:15 PM, starting at Burke Realty Group and ending at Sweet Home The Pinnacle of Praise, for a special program.
This year’s event features keynote speaker Dr. Anthony Watson and performances by the C.D. Fulkes Middle School and Callison Elementary School choirs.
Where: 3121 Eagles Nest St., Round Rock
When: Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 1 pm – 3 pm
How Much: Free
Austin MLK Community March & Festival 2026
Image Credit: mlkcelebration.com
This annual tradition is the largest MLK Day event in Central Texas, celebrating Dr. King’s legacy with a day of multiculturalism and community unity. The 2026 celebration begins with a high-energy rally on the south steps of the Texas State Capitol.
From the Capitol, the community will march together to the campus of Huston-Tillotson University, where the MLK Community Festival takes over. Expect a family-friendly atmosphere featuring local musical artists, a diverse array of food and merchandise vendors, and numerous activities for kids.
Where: Starts at Texas State Capitol (1100 Congress Ave) and ends at Huston-Tillotson University (900 Chicon St)
When: Monday, January 19, 2026 | 9:30 am (Rally); 11 am – 3 pm (Festival)
How Much: Free
Cedar Park/Leander MLK Day March & Celebration
Image credit: leandertx.gox
For those in North Austin or the suburbs, the City of Leander and Cedar Park host a joint celebration that is perfect for families. The event kicks off with a community march starting at the Cedar Park Recreation Center, followed by an indoor celebration.
The program features winning student essays, gospel music, and spoken word performances centered around the 2026 theme: “Teach Them Well: The Future Starts With Us.”
Where: Cedar Park Recreation Center, 1435 Main St, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Monday, January 19, 2026 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
How Much: Free
MLK Day March, Georgetown
Honor Dr. King’s vision by participating in the annual MLK Day march through downtown Georgetown on Monday, January 19, 2026. Supporters will gather at 11:45 a.m. at the Williamson County Courthouse before walking together to Macedonia Baptist Church.
The event concludes with a meaningful program and a keynote address by Southwestern University’s Gerald Jones.
Where: Williamson County Courthouse, 710 S Main St, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 | 11:45 am
How Much: Free
MLK Weekend Events in Austin (Jan 15–18, 2026)
MLK Kids Event
Image credit: Dunbar Heritage Association – DHA
Join the Dunbar Heritage Association for a vibrant celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This family-friendly event invites children and teens (ages 3–18) to engage with history through new books, art, videos, and hands-on crafts.
A highlight of the workshop is the opportunity for participants to design and create their own posters for the upcoming annual MLK Day March.
Where: San Marcos Public Library, 625 E Hopkins St, San Marcos, TX 78666
When: Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 10:30 am – 1 pm
How Much: Free
MLK Day Poetry Showcase at The Vortex
For a more creative tribute, head to the Six Square cultural district for this long-running open mic poetry event. Hosted by Ebony Stewart, the showcase prioritizes Black artists on a stage dedicated to resistance and social justice through art.
This year’s event merges with the Every Word Poetry program, creating a powerful community experience in the Butterfly Garden.
Where: The Vortex, 2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
When: Monday, January 19, 2026 | 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
How Much: Free to participate; Pay-what-you-can to listen ($5 suggested donation)
Circles of Light: MLK Community Gathering
Join BRAVE Communities for an intentional gathering designed to foster unity and reflection. This event features “listening circles” where neighbors can engage in meaningful dialogue about social justice, mental health, and community building.
The afternoon also includes live youth performances by the Project Melody Quartet and a pop-up marketplace featuring local BIPOC-owned vendors. It’s located just a short walk from the main MLK Festival at Huston-Tillotson, making it a perfect afternoon stop.
Where: Rozco’s Comedy Club, 1805 E. 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Monday, January 19, 2026 | 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
How Much: Free (Donations suggested to support youth initiatives)
MLK Day Brunch & Day Party
If you’re looking for a more high-energy way to celebrate the holiday, Austin’s own DJ Hella Yella is hosting the annual MLK Day Brunch at Busy Signal. This “Day Party” atmosphere features great food, signature cocktails, and a soundtrack of soul, R&B, and hip-hop.
It’s a popular spot for the local community to gather after the morning march to eat, dance, and celebrate the culture.
Where: Busy Signal, 1104 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Monday, January 19, 2026 | 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
How Much: Free entry with RSVP; Brunch costs vary from $0 – $59.75
MLK Day of Service Austin
MLK Day Donation Drive at Pease Park
Celebrate the “Day of Service” by giving back to the Austin community at Pease Park. The Pease Park Conservancy is hosting a massive donation drive at Kingsbury Commons to support local families in need.
They are specifically collecting non-perishable food for the Micah 6 food pantry, as well as diapers and period products for the Austin Diaper Bank. It’s a great way to turn the holiday into a “day on, not a day off” while enjoying one of Austin’s most beautiful green spaces.
Where: Kingsbury Commons at Pease Park, 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78703
When: Monday, January 19, 2026 | 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
How Much: Free to attend (Donations encouraged)
If you’re looking for other events you and your loved ones can enjoy, check out more upcoming events and local fun in our Austin weekend guide.
- MLK Day Austin 2026: March, Festival & Events - January 15, 2026
- Top Weekend Events in Austin – January 16th – 18th, 2026 - January 15, 2026
- Austin Highlights: Jan. 12 to 15 – Food, Music, Arts & More - January 12, 2026
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.