As communities across the country prepare Monday to host parades, panels and service projects for the 40th anniversary of when the federal government officially began observing Martin Luther King Jr.

Stillwater and multiple Oklahoma State University sites plan to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with events Monday and Tuesday. Community United will hold a march beginning at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Public Library.

The National Park Service started free entry days in 2009. The selection and number of days have varied, but Martin Luther King Jr. Day has been on the list ever since 2011.

A South Carolina pastor delivered a fiery speech on civil rights during a Santa Maria celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, highlighting America’s

The King Center will conclude its 2026 commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with its annual Beloved Community Commemorative