In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day there are a number of events happening across the U..S. and in New York City. The day was established in 1986 as a national holiday to recognize King's work as one of the greatest civil rights leaders. The day occurs on Jan. 21, 2013 and happens every year on the third Monday in January around the time of his birthday on Jan 15.

For those living in New York City there are a number of ways to commemorate Martin Luther King's work. It is well known as a day of giving and in New York City many will participate in community service with the slogan, "A day ON, not a day OFF."

Seventh Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Anti-Hunger Serve-a-thon

The New York City Coalition Against Hunger puts on the yearly volunteer weekend, in honor of Dr. King. With the serve-a-thon more than 1,000 soup kitchens joint together and welcomes any volunteers who want to come in for the day and contribute.
nyccah.org

Artists Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.

There is a free celebration to honor Martin Luther King at the Peter Jay Sharp Theatre at Symphony Space where powerful artists will celebrate his legacy in music. "Join the JCC for our annual presentation of powerful work by artists whose vision coincides with King's voice for justice, peace and civil rights," says it's website.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Walking Tour of Harlem

With NYC Discovery Walking Tours visitors can take a tour of Harlem which will stop at historic landmarks such as the Lenox Lounge where Billie Holiday performed, the Apollo theatre and the site of the NYC assassination attempt.

24th Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The annual celebration will be anchored by actor Danny Glover and includes performans such as beat boxer Kenny Muhammad and Brooklyn's New Life Tabernacle Mass Choir. The free event is at the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn.