Wichita will celebrate the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. this month with celebrations beginning on MLK Day, Monday, January 19, 2026.
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday is a celebration of the life and impact of a man who brought hope and healing to America. We honor and commend the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility, and service that distinctly characterized Dr. King’s persona and fueled his leadership. On this special day, we reflect on the universal, unconditional love, forgiveness, and nonviolence that fueled his revolutionary spirit. To mark this occasion, we have put together a guide highlighting various events in the City of Wichita to commemorate MLK Day.
MLK Day falls on National Popcorn Day this year, which means it’s a great time to be out and about looking for easy, budget-friendly fun. Families can honor the day while also taking advantage of some tasty perks, including chances to score FREE popcorn and other special one-day deals around town.
It’s also when Kids can Ice Skate for Free at Chicken N Pickle for a limited time during the day. Find out more about Free Ice Skating & $3 Kids Meals.
Martin Luther King Events in Wichita
MLK Unity Parade & Breakfast
Date: January 17, 2026
Time:
- 8 am – 9:30 pancake breakfast. Free for K-12 students, and everyone else is $5 at the Christian Faith Centre.
- 10 am will be the Walk for Freedom parade.
Location: Christian Faith Centre at 3310 E. Pawnee Ave.
Join the MLK City of Wichita Parade and bring your cars, trucks, horses, motorcycles, etc. This parade honors Dr. King and to march and serve our community during an unprecedented time of unity.
To sign up for the parade, please contact Bishop Wade Moore, Jr. (316) 304-5479.
Christian Faith Centre Facebook
MLK Day Unity Walk at Chicken N Pickle
Date: January 19, 2026
Time: 10 am
Location: Chicken N Pickle, 1240 N Greenwich Rd.
At Chicken N Pickle, the focus is on bringing people together to celebrate community, inclusivity, and the power of unity. The MLK Walk is a meaningful opportunity to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and his vision of equality, justice, and love. By participating, Chicken N Pickle is proud to walk alongside neighbors, reflect on its powerful message, and continue fostering a culture of togetherness in everything it does.
The walk begins at 10 am and is followed by a free breakfast for walkers (while supplies last) and a fun activity. Everyone is welcome to join.
Martin Luther King Commemoration & Award Luncheon
Date: January 17, 2026
Time: 11- 1 pm
Location: Shirley Begg’s Ballroom
Join us for a special event at Wichita State University to honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, which will take place at Shirley Begg’s Ballroom. We invite you to celebrate the life and achievements of this influential leader who fought tirelessly for civil rights and equality.
The event will feature a luncheon to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. Come and be inspired by the powerful words and lasting impact of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. Let us continue his mission of creating a more just and inclusive society. Don’t miss this opportunity to reflect and honor the great legacy of this remarkable leader. Tickets
Wichita Habitat for Humanity Day of Service
Date: January 19, 2026
Time: 8 – 11:30 am
Location: Century II Expo Hall
“We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. King’s vision of the “Beloved Community” is a place where everyone is cared for and everyone has a decent place to live. Help us build that community in Wichita this MLK Day.
Come grab a hammer and some gloves so we can build the walls of two homes. Let’s work together to build a better future for our neighbors.
Sign up to serve here: 
wichitahabitat.org/MLK
Roller City Martin Luther King Jr. Day
At Roller City on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, admission is $7, and skate rental is $3. They will also be selling .50-cent hot dogs.
Date: January 19, 2026
Time: 11 am – 4 pm – or while supplies last
Closed for Martin Luther King Day in Wichita
- City Hall
- Neighborhood resource centers
- Transit administrative offices
- Wichita Public Library locations
- Park administrative offices and recreation centers
- Botanica
- Mid-American All-Indian Museum,
- Cowtown
- Wichita Art Museum
- Great Plains Nature Center
- Environmental Health office
- WATER Center
Not Happening this Year or Not Confirmed:
Pop-Up Exhibition at the Ulrick Museum of Art
Martin Luther King Celebration & Worship at WSU Metroplex
Annual Marin Luther King Jur. Heroes & Sheroes Breakfast
Urban League of Kansas Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s Legacy: Day of Service
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