Today the country honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This federal, American holiday is observed on the third Monday of every January. Originally signed as a U.S. federal holiday in 1983, it wasn’t first observed until 1986.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a social activist who fought for civil and voting rights, peace and equality.

While many offices are closed in observance today, several are open to utilize this holiday as a day of service.

If you’re looking for ways you can honor Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in Denver, we highly encourage you to get out of the office for a while and engage in your community.

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.

Serve Colorado.
Every year volunteers from across thestate of Colorado team up to distribute over 25,000 books that have been collected through the Colorado Read Annual Book Drive.

Groundwork Denver.
Groundwork Denver works with low-income communities to improve their environment and overall well-being. From planting trees to insulating houses, this group is dedicated to promoting growth, change and positive energy.

Today, Groundwork Denver is working in the neighborhoods of Montebello to offer free energy assessments, trees and other resources to aid in their environment and well-being.

If getting out to volunteer with an organization isn’t an option today, team up with your coworkers and cleanup your business park! Pool together some extra cash and buy someone in need a hot meal. Find little ways to do a little bit of good.

We also highly encourage the community to take time to participate in some of the local events being held in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.!

The Marade
The annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade takes place at the Dr. King memorial site in City Park at 10:00am. Festive activities will be held throughout the morning and expected to end at 1:00pm.

For more information on the Marade, activities and vendors, visit their website here.

MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions
This National Western Stock Show takes place at the Historic Denver Coliseum to showcase the incredible black cowboys and cowgirls that have impacted history throughout the West.

This top-notch event includes a Pony Express relay, ladies’ steer undercoating and other traditional events.

As we observe this holiday, we encourage you to take part in this day of service! Be it through volunteering, donating goods or simply helping someone in need, do your part to do good.