Every year on the third Monday of January, the United States commemorates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his contributions to civil rights and racial equality. On the San Francisco Peninsula, a diverse range of events will observe MLK Day 2024 (Monday, January 15), offering opportunities to reflect, learn, and celebrate. Here's a glimpse of some notable events:
MLK Weekend Spiritual Retreat
Spend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day nestled in the tranquil redwood forest in Woodside with Canyon Ranch’s Senior Spiritual Wellness Provider Jeanne-Marie Mudd. A weekend retreat (January 11-15) inspired by Dr. King’s vision focuses on positive change through meaningful group discussions and presentations while exploring the transformative potential of your individual story to shape a more harmonious, united world.
Caltrain's MLK Celebration Train
Join in the celebrations of MLK Day as the Caltrain’s MLK Celebration Train makes a trip up the San Francisco Peninsula. Departing from San Jose's Diridon Station at 9:30 a.m. (65 Cahill St., San Jose, 95110), the train will make stops at Palo Alto Station at 9:50 a.m. (95 University Ave., Palo Alto, 94301) and at San Mateo Station at 10:10 a.m. (385 First Ave., San Mateo, 94401) before heading into San Francisco by 10:40 a.m. Reservations are required for this complimentary ride at any one of the above-mentioned stations, or from your point of departure on Monday, January 15.
2024 MLK Liberation Film Festival
Catch a free screening at the NorcalMLK Foundation's Liberation Film Festival (LFF). Thought-provoking films are curated around civil rights, social justice, and equality themes to foster dialogue, raise awareness, and drive positive change within communities. The festival begins on January 13 through January 15 at various locations. Check the full 2024 line-up for the location of screenings.
Spend The Day Giving Back
MLK Day, also a National Day of Service, offers over 200 volunteer opportunities through the NorcalMLK Foundation's Volunteer Program. Participate individually or in groups–register with the foundation to find out how.
Visit Martin Luther King Jr. Park in San Mateo
A champion of uniting the community, it’s fitting that this recreational park and community center at 725 Monte Diablo Avenue in San Mateo is a meeting place for residents. With a basketball court, baseball diamond, swimming pools, and barbecue grills for rent, it's a great spot for all ages to commemorate MLK Day.
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