MLK Memorial Events Calendar

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Update: Please note that the dates of the dedication and a number of the preceding events have been postponed due to weather forecasts. We'll bring you the latest details as they unfold.

Earlier:

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial, more than 15 years in the making, finally opens to the public on Aug. 22. The following week, on Aug. 28, notable names from Aretha Franklin to President Barack Obama will congregate at the site for the official dedication ceremony. As for all those days in between? They'll be packed with a mix of official and unofficial events around the District. Here's a quick look at the happenings.

Monday, Aug. 22

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial opens to the public.

Location: The intersection of West Basin Drive SW and Independence Avenue SW
Time: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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Wednesday, Aug. 24

Honoring Global Leaders for Peace, International Salute Gala Dinner

This formal dinner will commemorate the men and women who continue to pursue Dr. King's dream of global peace and social equality.

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Location: National Building Museum
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Cost: By invitation only

Thursday, Aug. 25

Honoring Past, Present, Future Pioneers, Civil Rights Pioneers Luncheon

This luncheon honors those who stood with Dr. King during the civil rights movement, those who stand for the dream today and those who encourage future generations.

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Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Time: 12-2 p.m.
Cost: $85/seat (limited ticket availability)

A.D. King: Brother to the Dreamer: Behold the Dream, film screening and discussion

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The Rev. Dr. Alfred Daniel Williams King, brother of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., worked on several civil rights campaigns. This documentary highlights his contributions. A.D. King's widow, Naomi King, and the film's executive producer, Dr. Babs Onabanjo, will lead a discussion after the screening.

Location: Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public

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Partners in the Dream, public expo

Join supporters of the memorial for a public expo including information booths, performances and a tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Time: 3-8 p.m. (runs daily through Sunday, Aug. 28)
Cost: Free and open to the public

The Message in the Music, concert of civil rights-era music

Various artists (performers to be announced) present the sounds of the civil rights movement, legendary music that inspired hope, strength and change.

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Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Time: 8-10 p.m.
Cost: $100, $65 (limited ticket availability)

Friday, Aug. 26

Women Who Dare to Dream, luncheon honoring female civil rights leaders

This luncheon honors the women of the civil rights movement, whose legacy of strength and dignity continues to inspire hope.

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Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Time: 12-2 p.m.
Cost: $85/seat (limited ticket availability)

Kennedy Center Celebration, gospel and jazz concert

Gospel legends Maggie Ingram and the Ingramettes, a cappella group Naturally 7 and harmonica virtuoso Frédéric Yonnet host a Millennium Stage concert.

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Location: Concert Hall at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Time: 6-7 p.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public

Saturday, Aug. 27

Interfaith Prayer Service

The official prayer service celebrating the dedication of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

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Location: Washington National Cathedral
Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
Cost: By invitation only

Dream Keepers, Future Leaders Youth Symposium

This event engages today's youths to spread Dr. King's message and live their potential.

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Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: By invitation only

National Action Network March

The Rev. Al Sharpton and his National Action Network, along with national partners in labor, education, civil rights and clergy, assemble to march for jobs and justice.

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Location: Constitution Avenue NW and 17th Street NW
Time: Pre-march rally, 12 p.m.; march to King Memorial, 1:30 p.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public

The March, film screening

A screening of the 1963 film documenting the Aug. 28, 1963, March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

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Location: William G. McGowan Theater, National Archives
Time: 12 p.m. (repeat showing on Sunday, Aug. 28)
Cost: Free and open to the public

The Celebration, Dream Gala

The premier VIP formal event of dedication, where major donors, dignitaries and other supporters will come together to celebrate completion of the memorial.

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Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Time: Reception, 6-7 p.m.; dinner, 7-10 p.m.
Cost: $250, $125 (limited ticket availability)

Sunday, Aug. 28

Pre-Dedication Musical Tribute

Preceding the official dedication of the memorial, this concert will pay tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Location: West Potomac Park
Time: 10-11 a.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public

Dedication Ceremony

The official dedication ceremony of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

Location: West Potomac Park
Time: 11 a.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public

Concert on the Mall

Post-dedication concert featuring noted artists.

Location: West Potomac Park
Time: 2-4 p.m.
Cost: Free and open to the public

Hip-Hop Caucus Dedication Party

A party featuring local legend Biz Markie, as well as Mr. Cheeks, Violet Says 5, Laelo Hood, Substantial and Awthentik.

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Location: 9:30 Club
Time: 7 p.m.
Cost: $12