Atlanta, GA Celebrates 25 Years of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

January 17, 2011 marks the 25th anniversary that the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday is observed as a national holiday. A variety of venues throughout the city of Atlanta are hosting events to celebrate this milestone. If you live in Georgia, or plan to be in the area over the holiday weekend, consider participating in the following events that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

A King Celebration Concert: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra with Morehouse and Spelman College Glee Clubs

On Thursday, January 13, Morehouse College will host its annual King Celebration Concert at the MLK International Chapel located on the campus. Robert Spano, music director for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, will lead this concert along with special guests, and the glee clubs from Morehouse and Spelman. This musical celebration will honor the life and legacy of Dr. King through words and music.

American Public Media will broadcast the concert live. The concert starts at 8:00 p.m. and is open to the public. General admission price is $25.00.

Local Martin Luther King Day Events in Atlanta on January 17

Imagine It! The Children's Museum of Atlanta will have an MLK Day celebration from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with three fun-filled activities for children to learn about Dr. King.

The Melting Pot of Diversity starts at 11:00 a.m. MLK: The Man, the Music, His Dream is from 11:30 to 3:00 p.m. and includes a special presentation of "I Have a Dream." A special reading at 12:30 p.m. of the book titled "Waddie Welcome & the Beloved Community" written by Tom Kohler and Susan Earl will also include a visual presentation. This book highlights one of Dr. King's phrases, the beloved community.

Ticket prices for the museum are $12.50 for per person ages 2 and older. Children under 2 are admitted free. Group discounts for 10 or more people is also available. Visit the museum's web site at http://www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org/ for directions and more information.

A film festival at The King Center Auditorium located at 449 Auburn Avenue will also take place from noon to 5:00 p.m. This is the First Annual Civil Rights Film Festival which will feature documentaries such as "In the Footsteps of Gandhi" and "Crossing Saint Augustine." This free film festival is presented by the Andrew Young Foundation and will include remarks from Ambassador Young.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Commemorative Service will be at Ebenezer Baptist Church. This year's keynote speaker is Martin Luther King, III. The service begins at 10:00 a.m. and is free, but with limited seating. Anyone who wishes to attend this live broadcast should arrive early.

The Bonner Office of Community Service will sponsor the King Remembrance Day of Service with volunteer opportunities that support Dr. King's legacy of serving others. Call 404-681-7575 for more information.

References:

The King Center, http://www.thekingcenter.org/kingholiday/Events.aspx;

Access Atlanta, http://www.accessatlanta.com/atlanta-events