UPDATE: The Museum of the American Revolution is gearing up for an exciting Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend from January 17 to 19, 2026, highlighting the profound connection between Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Declaration of Independence. This event coincides with the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary and promises a weekend packed with impactful talks, performances, and special programming.
Visitors will have the chance to explore the special exhibition, “The Declaration’s Journey,” which delves into the evolving interpretations of the Declaration of Independence throughout history. Notably, the exhibition features significant artifacts related to MLK, including the metal prison bench he occupied while drafting the “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” in 1963. Also showcased will be an early distribution copy of King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech from the March on Washington.
The weekend kicks off with “AmRev Presents: The Declaration’s Journey in Concert” on Friday, January 16, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. This engaging concert blends music and storytelling to trace the leadership and civil rights movements throughout American history. Tickets include a reception and access to the special exhibition, making it an unmissable experience.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can participate in various activities, including informative gallery talks, guided tours, and theatrical performances that connect the Revolutionary era to ongoing struggles for freedom and equality. Highlights include the final viewing of Lemuel Haynes’ 1776 anti-slavery essay, “Liberty Further Extended,” and daily discussions focusing on the power of words in igniting social change.
A first-person theatrical performance will feature Elizabeth Freeman, a formerly enslaved woman who successfully sued for her freedom, emphasizing the personal impact of the quest for justice. Educator-led gallery talks will explore the experiences of people of African descent from the Revolutionary period to the Civil Rights Movement, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of this essential history.
Families can also engage in hands-on activities that explore protest, poetry, and civic action. A guided “Black Voices of the Revolution” tour will be available on Saturday and Sunday at noon for an additional fee.
All events during MLK Weekend are included with regular museum admission, which allows for two consecutive days of exploration. The Museum of the American Revolution is located at 101 S 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19106, and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children ages 5 and under enter for free.
As we approach this significant weekend, the Museum of the American Revolution invites everyone to reflect on the powerful legacy of Dr. King and the ongoing fight for equality. Mark your calendars for this transformative experience!
