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Best Martin Luther King Day Celebrations in Sacramento

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. changed the world, and residents of the Sacramento region will honor his contributions at various events in January. The Atlanta, Georgia native was a leader in all senses of the word, teaching people to peacefully stand up for their rights as human beings. Particularly known for his work in the Civil Rights Movement, the pastor and humanitarian won a Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. King's legacy has had a profound and lasting effect on Americans personally, publicly and politically, and in 1983, a federal holiday was created in his honor. Observed on the third Monday of January each year, the 2015 holiday also marks the Civil Rights Act's 50th anniversary.
Capitol March for the Dream
Sacramento City College
3835 Freeport Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95817
(916) 426-4227
www.mlk365.org

Date: Jan. 19, 2015, rain or shine

Now in its 34th year, the annual Capitol March for the Dream is a celebration of King's life and of his vision for the future. Participants will gather in the uncovered parking lot of Hughes Stadium at Sacramento City College; parking is free and the location is also accessible by public transportation. Many people and organizations take part in this positive, life-affirming march, including social, school and civic groups, politicians, non-profits and marching bands.

Along the route, marchers will stop on the west steps at the State Capitol for a brief rally, encouraging participants to "stand up, speak out and make a difference" through personal activism and involvement. The march will culminate at 1400 J Street, at the Sacramento Convention Center. Official "March for the Dream" shirts will be available for purchase for $10.

Related: Best Exhibits For Kids In Sacramento

The MLK Celebration
Capital Christian Center
9470 Micron Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95827
www.mlksacramento.org

Date: Jan. 18, 2015

More than 30 local churches help sponsor this joyous celebration, which will include music by the 100+ member MLK Celebration Choir. Author, chancellor and founder of Eternity Bible College Francis Chan is set to be the evening's keynote speaker. Five Sacramento-area residents will also be honored for their contributions through "Difference Maker" awards.

Weekend of Service
Oak Park United Methodist Church
3600 Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95817
(916) 488-6441
www.sierraserviceproject.org

Date: Jan. 16-18, 2015

Local youth are invited to volunteer for this special weekend, directly helping their community through the food bank and in other projects for low-income neighborhoods. Nonprofits and homeowners in areas of South Sacramento, Oak Park and North Sacramento have participated during the past six years. The weekend program costs $110 per person, and includes two nights' lodging, all meals, materials and a project t-shirt. Scholarships are available.

Diversity Expo
Sacramento Convention Center
1400 J St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 426-4227
www.mlk365.org

Date: Jan. 19, 2015

The expo, considered one of the largest multicultural celebrations in the region, is a fun and uplifting event for people of all ages. Dr. King often spoke about the need for education, career development, healthcare and the sharing of resources, and multiple booths on these topics will be featured in the Expo. There will be crafts, movies and face painting for kids, and local teens will be on hand to showcase their abilities and talents. The personal experiences of older Americans will be shared in the Expo's Wisdom Corner, and there will be speakers, performances and more entertainment on the main stage. The Expo is free of charge; paid parking will be available on the street or at nearby parking structures.

MLK Celebration Dinner
Sheraton Grand Hotel
1230 J St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 447-1700
www.mlkcelebrationsacramento.com

Date: Jan. 31, 2015

Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives president Kenneth B. Morris, Jr. is the keynote speaker for this reception and dinner, now in its 16th year. Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg will be also be present as he receives the Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award for 2015.

Related: Most Community-Centered Bookstores in Sacramento

Valerie Heimerich is a freelance writer out of Sacramento. She typically covers animals and community issues. She has volunteered and worked for many organizations helping animals and people.
Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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