"If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way". Reverend Dr. Martin Lather King Jr. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Officials with the City of New Orleans Martin Luther King Jr. Planning Commission announced the upcoming lineup of events set to honor the late Civil Rights leader. The holiday falls on Monday, Jan. 20 this year. Fifth annual Algiers Mardi Gras Parade and Festival returns as ‘biggest-ever’ To celebrate Dr. King's "enduring vision of justice, equality, and nonviolent social change", the theme of the celebration “A Time to Break Silence: African Roots/American Fruits” to highlight the interconnectedness of African heritage and its profound impact on American culture, according to city officials. 2025 events: 2025 National Conference of Artists Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Art ExhibitionA Time to Break Silence: African Roots/American Fruits Larry Ra Opening Reception Date: Saturday, Jan. 11 Time: 2:00 p.m. Location: Rosa F. Keller Library Gallery, 4300 South Broad Street, New Orleans, LA 70125 A celebration of featured artist Larry Ra and his remarkable contributions to the exhibition. His one-man exhibition is titled BRAVE: An Art Exhibit” National Juried MLK Exhibition Opening Reception Date: Saturday, Jan. 18 Time: 12 p.m. Location: Ashé Cultural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70113 A showcase of works by artists nationwide, featuring recognition of civil rights leaders Doratha ‘Dodie’ Smith Simmons and Jerome ‘Big Duck’ Smith. Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Choral Concert Date: Thursday, Jan. 16 Time: 6 p.m. Location: UNO University Center Ballroom, 2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, LA 70148 A night of moving musical performances that honor Dr. King’s legacy. 39th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Service Date: Sunday, Jan. 19. Time: 12 p.m. Location: Holy Faith Temple Baptist Church ‘The Treme Church’, 1325 Gov. Nicholls Street, New Orleans, LA 70116 This impactful event will feature dynamic speeches from local dignitaries, civil rights leaders, and community activists, alongside musical performances, spoken word pieces, and a short documentary on local civil rights contributions. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Freedom Caucus holds its fire on Johnson’s strategy for passing Trump agenda More cold nights on the way Trump, allies fuel speculation over Greenland endgame Former Tulane running back Makhi Hughes reportedly commits to Oregon Actor Steve Guttenberg jumps into action as brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades