MLK holiday weekend is full of meaningful moments and family-friendly fun across Greater Baton Rouge. From glowing night festivals and hands-on nature celebrations to service projects, marches, and museum experiences, this weekend offers plenty of opportunities for Things To Do in Baton Rouge… learn, reflect, celebrate, and spend quality time with family!
Things to do in Baton Rouge
Weekend Planner January 17th – 19th
Weekend Family Fun Planner | January 17–19, 2026
Weekend Weather
Expect cool winter mornings and evenings with mild daytime temperatures. Layers are recommended, especially for outdoor and nighttime events.
Disclosure
Event details can change. Please check with event hosts directly before attending for the most up-to-date information.
Saturday, January 17
Light Up the Night Fest
Time: 5 – 9 PM
Location: Highland Road Community Park
Details:
Light up the night with BREC for an evening of glowing family fun. Enjoy live music from The Chris LeBlanc Band, a community bonfire, DIY lantern workshop, glow bubbles, illuminated games, glow play stations, s’mores and fire snacks, and a fireworks finale.
Cost: FREE
More info: brec.org/lightfest
PLUS Night at Highland Road Park Observatory
Time: 7 – 10 PM
Location: Highland Road Park Observatory
Details:
Go beyond standard sky viewing with a PLUS Night at Highland Road Park Observatory. Enjoy guided sky tours, physical science demonstrations, “birth” stars, and a marshmallow roast. Each PLUS Night features a unique theme and is perfect for curious kids and adults alike.
Cost: FREE
More info: brec.org/calendar/detail/plus-night
Saturday, January 17
Arbor Day at LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at the Barton Arboretum
Details:
Celebrate Arbor Day with a free, family-friendly event at LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. Families can take home a free tree (one per household, while supplies last), help plant trees in Burden Woods, enjoy StoryTime in the Garden, a scavenger hunt, tree climbing, the Kiddie Forest Playground, axe throwing, and a special visit from Smokey Bear.
Cost: FREE | No registration required
Sunday & Monday January 18–19
MLK Fest Community Service Projects & Fest
The Walls Project invites the community to take part in a two-day MLK service event focused on caring for homes and public spaces. Volunteer opportunities include beautification projects, blight and litter removal, and creating art to uplift neighborhoods.
Check-in location: 4000 Gus Young Ave., Baton Rouge
More info & registration: thewallsproject.org/mlkfestbr
MLK Fest 2026 Block Party
Time: Noon – 3 PM
Location: Park Medical Elementary
Details:
The MLK Fest 2026 Block Party is the day of celebration following MLK Day service projects and brings the community together for an afternoon of joy and reflection. Enjoy a Kid Zone, food trucks, vendors, live music, and a racial healing conversation from 1 – 2:30 PM.
Live performances include Archie Williams, The Michael Foster Project, and HD for President.
Registration is still open — all are welcome.
Monday January 19
Annual MLK Day March & Program – Zachary
Time: March begins at 6:00 PM
Location:
March starts at Zachary City Hall (4700 Main Street) and proceeds to New Pilgrim B.C. (4277 Old Weis Road)
Details:
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Zachary Committee will host its Annual MLK Day March and Program with the theme “Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way.”
Immediately following the march, the MLK Program will honor the life, legacy, and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Note: All City of Zachary offices will be closed in observance of the MLK Holiday.
I Have a Dream Day at Knock Knock Children’s Museum
Time: 10am – 4 pm
Location: Knock Knock Children’s Museum
Details:
Celebrate MLK Day with play and purpose at Knock Knock Children’s Museum. Families can explore engaging, hands-on activities inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream Speech” will play in Knock Knock square throughout the day for visitors to watch and listen. Additionally, students from the East Baton Rouge Parish Talented Theatre Department will deliver a short performance of the iconic and beloved speech.
Cost: Free for members | General admission for non-members
Tickets available online or at the door.
This MLK holiday weekend offers meaningful ways for families to come together, through celebration, service, learning, and play. Whether you’re planting trees, gazing at the stars, marching in unity, or dancing at a block party, we hope you find moments that inspire connection and community.