Join the City of Bloomington for the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration event on Monday, January 19, 2026 at the Buskirk Chumley Theater. This year’s theme Soul, Spirit, and Sacrifice: Honoring the Legacy of Coretta Scott King and the Women Who Faced America to Save U.S., will feature remarks from community leaders, performances from the Indiana University African American Choral Ensemble, and an inspiring keynote speech from Dr. Traci Parker. This event will also include the presentation of the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Award to local activist Ruth Aydt.

This free, un-ticketed event will begin at 5:30 P.M. with doors opening at 5:00 P.M. For more information, please visit bton.in/mlk2026.

For more information, please contact Aubrey Seader, Staff Liaison, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Commission at mlk@bloomington.in.gov or 812-349-3430.

Following the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration, the City has arranged an optional, free, community viewing opportunity at the Buskirk‑Chumley Theater (114 E. Kirkwood Ave). The watch party is available for attendees who choose to remain after the MLK program, as well as to other community members who wish to attend. The College Football National Championship will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Both the MLK program and the game viewing are free and open to the public. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance. The theatre seats 600. Attendees of the MLK program may remain in their seats for the viewing if they choose. Full concessions will be available for purchase in the theater lobby. No outside food or drinks are allowed in the theater.