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4 Ways to Celebrate MLK Day in Pittsburgh

By Lisa Williams, Macaroni Kid Pittsburgh City Publisher January 14, 2024

Hey Pittsburgh families! Martin Luther King Jr. Day is just around the corner, and we've got some cool ideas to make it a blast for you and your kiddos. It's not just a day off; it's a chance to have fun, learn, and celebrate together. From cool places to visit to hands-on activities, we've rounded up some awesome things to do on MLK Day in the Steel City. Let's turn this day off into a day to remember – with a mix of play, learning, and maybe a sprinkle of service. Get ready for a fantastic MLK Day with your little ones! 

1. Skate for FREE at the Hunt Armory

Families are invited to visit Hunt Armory and participate in a creative community service project, designing greeting cards for local seniors along with an afternoon of ice skating. 

WHEN: Monday, January 15th, 1:00PM-3:00PM
WHERE: Hunt Armory Ice Rink, 324 Emerson Street, Pittsburgh PA 15206
WHAT ELSE: Skates will be provided free of charge!
REGISTRATION: Registration is required, and spaces limited: https://pittsburghpenguins.formstack.com/forms/mlk_day_skate_the_hunt_armory
If you have questions please contact communityinitiatives@pittsburghpenguins.com


2. Explore with The Children's Museum 






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Join The Children's Museum to celebrate and commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and all that he stood for. Throughout the day, we’ll engage in programs that help us remember his legacy and inspire children and families to continue his work.

Activities include:
  • Storytimes with author Dominique Briggs in the Children’s Museum
    11:00 am, Noon and 1:00 pm
  • Poetry workshops in MuseumLab
    1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 pm
  • Collaborative art mural Reaching for the Dream – a conversation started by Gwen’s Girls in MuseumLab
    Noon – 5:00 pm
  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr videos shown in MuseumLab
    Noon – 5:00 pm
  • MuseumLab will be open from Noon – 5:00 pm and included with museum admission.

3. Brunch and Bingo with the Hazelwood Initiative






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This celebratory event will kick off with a few rounds of MLK Jr. Bingo and art activities, as well as live jazz and poetry from the youth at Center of Life.

After you can enjoy a special Martin Luther King Jr. film while relishing in a delicious, Soulfood brunch from Nikki P's Cafe. Find more information and register HERE.


4. Celebrate Justice in Action at The Kelly Strayhorn Theater






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Kelly Strayhorn Theater uplifts the life, legacy, and activism of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through their annual MLK community event. Join them in their lobby for a day of family-friendly activities from community partners including True T Pgh, Young Black Motivated Kings & Queens, Repair the World, City of Asylum and Assemble. Then take a seat in the theater for performances hosted by Jacquea Mae. Performances by Pittsburgh artists including Hill Dance Academy Theatre, K-Theatre Dance Complex, and Alumni Theater Company celebrate the civil rights legacy of Dr. King and Pittsburgh activists past and present. 


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