r. Martin Luther King Jr. would have turned 87 this year. What might the civil rights leader think of the fruits of his labor today? We've come far, but the road is rocky. The Monday, Jan. 18 holiday is a chance to reflect on MLK's efforts, along with ours. These local events are prime picks for contemplation-and celebration.
MLK Comedy Jam
Luenell joins teams up with Arnez J and Karlous Miller to honor the activist with a very nonviolent approach: laughter.
- When: 7 p.m./doors, 8 p.m./show Jan. 16
- Where: Masonic Temple, 500 Temple Ave., Detroit
- Cost: $45-$95
- More: 313-638-2724, TheMasonic.com
The Color of Water
Saxophonist James McBride explores the nature of identity, race and heritage through music and storytelling.
- When: 2:30-4:30 p.m. Jan. 17
- Where: Walgreen Drama Center, 1226 Murfin Ave., Ann Arbor
- Cost: Free
- More: 734-764-2538, Music.Umich.edu
MLK Day at The Wright
Don't miss the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History's busiest day of the year with a breakfast, workshops, music, storytelling and much more.
- When: 8-10 a.m./breakfast, 10 a.m.-5 p.m./activities Jan. 18
- Where: 315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit
- Cost: $35/breakfast; rest free with entry: $8/adults, $5/ages 3-12
- More: 313-494-5800, TheWright.org
Peace Walk
This 31st annual event celebrates Dr. King with a brisk stroll and a program with various speakers.
- When: 9:30 a.m./walk, 11 a.m./program, Jan. 18
- Where: Hope United Methodist Church, Southfield, 26275 Northwestern Highway/walk; Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road/program
- Cost: Free
- More: MLKTaskForceMI.org
MLK Bike Ride
Cycle for civil rights on Tour de Troit's 10-mile ride, which wheels through various Detroit sites relevant to activism.
- When: 10 a.m. Jan. 18
- Where: Starts at McGregor Memorial Conference Center, 495 Ferry Mall, Detroit
- Cost: Free (registration required)
- More: Tour-de-Troit.org
Henry Ford Museum
Activities here are free and open on MLK Monday. Enjoy live music, make crafts and hear the story of Rosa Parks-even carry a protest sign yourself.
- When: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 18
- Where: 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn
- Cost: Free
- More: 313-982-6001, TheHenryFord.org
Bring the Dream to Life
Share your dream on the community wall, test your MLK trivia and more, topped by singing Stevie Wonder’s "Happy Birthday" followed by "We Shall Overcome."
- When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 18
- Where: Detroit Historical Museum, 5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit
- Cost: Free/event, $7/parking
- More: 313- 833-7935, DetroitHistorical.org
