Exciting Weekend Events in Seattle: Martin Luther King Jr. Day and More
As the midpoint of January 2026 approaches, residents of Seattle are gearing up for their first long weekend of the year. This Martin Luther King Jr. weekend is not just an opportunity for an extra day off; it’s a chance to engage in meaningful celebrations, community service, and fun-filled activities. Let’s dive into the various events happening around the city.
Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.
This weekend is anchored by a series of events honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. On Saturday, Seattle will host a vibrant MLK March and Celebration, commencing at 11 a.m. The day will feature impactful speeches and entertainment that highlight Dr. King’s message. Following this, at 12:30 p.m., youth-led participants will march from the park to the Rainier Community Center. The post-march festivities will include live music, art displays, food stalls, and educational activities focused on Dr. King’s vital work in civil rights.
But the celebrations don’t stop there. On Friday, the 53rd Annual Community Celebration kicks off at South Seattle College at 9:30 a.m. Additionally, the MLK Celebration at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center on Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. will add variety to the weekend’s events. On MLK Day itself, community members are encouraged to participate in service projects throughout the city, organized by the United Way King County and the Washington Service Corps, which provide excellent opportunities to honor Dr. King’s spirit through action.
Listen to Music, See Art
Musical performances will abound this weekend, particularly for fans of Neil Diamond. Head over to the Paramount Theater to enjoy A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical. This show chronicles the journey of the legendary artist and will feature many of his classic hits. Tickets are available through the Paramount’s website for those interested in experiencing this vibrant production.
Movie buffs and families alike should not miss the two-day Wizard of Oz Celebration at the Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP). On Saturday and Sunday, patrons can enjoy screenings of the original film, the Muppets version, and even the sequel, Return to Oz. There will also be crafts, table-top games, and a special panel discussion with director Alexandre Philippe on Sunday. Tickets can be secured through MOPOP’s official site, and this event promises to be a fantastic experience for all ages.
Enjoy Family Fun
For those looking to entertain their children, Kidstock in Edmonds is a must-visit. Scheduled for Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at the Edmonds Center, this free event offers a plethora of activities, including live performances, puppet-making workshops, and a multitude of fun carnival games. Kids can also explore a fire truck and enjoy delicious offerings from local food trucks, plus root beer from Gallagher’s root beer garden.
In Puyallup, the Great Train Show at the Washington State Fairgrounds will be another family-oriented highlight. Running from Saturday to Sunday, the event features impressive model train layouts and hundreds of vendors. Best of all, kids aged 11 and under can attend for free, making it an affordable outing for families.
Exciting Sports
Sports enthusiasts will be on the edge of their seats this weekend as the Seattle Seahawks vie for a spot in the Super Bowl against their long-time rivals, the San Francisco 49ers. For those unable to secure tickets to the game, fear not! Numerous local venues, like The Dock in Fremont, Gasworks Brewing, and Victory Hall, are hosting watch parties. Wherever you choose to gather, it’s bound to be a lively atmosphere filled with enthusiastic fans cheering on the Seahawks.
Seattle’s long weekend promises a blend of meaningful commemoration, artistic celebration, family-friendly fun, and thrilling sports. How do you plan to enjoy your time off? Share your weekend experiences at paulh@kiroradio.com.