Celebrating MLK Jr. Weekend 2026 in Nashville

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speaks at the Lincoln Memorial, a defining moment of the Civil Rights Movement and a lasting symbol of his call for justice, unity, and the Beloved Community.

Honoring the Legacy Through Reflection, Music, and Community

Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend in Nashville is a meaningful time to pause, reflect, and come together as a community. From January 17–19, 2026, Music City honors Dr. King’s enduring vision of the Beloved Community through marches, music, history, and opportunities for learning and service.

Whether you’re visiting Nashville or experiencing the weekend as a local, here’s how to thoughtfully celebrate MLK Day Weekend 2026 in Nashville.

41st Annual MLK Day March & Convocation (Monday, January 19, 2026)

The cornerstone of MLK Weekend in Nashville is the city-wide MLK Day March, followed by a powerful convocation that brings together voices from across the community.

The March

• Gathering: 8:30 AM

• Step-off: 9:00 AM

• Starting Point: Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church

• Route: Along historic Jefferson Street, long considered the heart of Nashville’s Black cultural and business community

The Convocation

• Location: TSU Gentry Center

• Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Host: Interdenominational Ministers Fellowship (IMF)

• What to Expect: Inspiring speakers, community leaders, and gospel choirs

2026 Theme: “Legacy in Action: Continuing the Dream through Service, Justice, & Unity.”

National Museum of African American Music: 5th Anniversary Celebration

Downtown Nashville is also home to one of the city’s most impactful cultural institutions: the National Museum of African American Music—and it turns five years old this MLK Day.

Free Community Day

• Date: Monday, January 19, 2026

• Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

• Cost: Free admission

Don’t Miss

• The launch of NMAAM Radio

• The debut of the new digital platform “Roots & Streams”

• Live performances by the McCrary Sisters, blending gospel, soul, and tradition

This is a perfect midday stop after the MLK March or before exploring downtown’s historic sites.

“Good Trouble” Civil Rights Walking Tour (Self-Guided)

Explore downtown Nashville on foot and follow in the footsteps of the student leaders who helped shape the Civil Rights Movement.

Key Stops Along the Way

• Woolworth Theatre
  Once home to the original Woolworth’s lunch counter, this site played a pivotal role during the 1960 student-led sit-ins that challenged segregation.

• Witness Walls (near the Metro Courthouse)
  A series of murals depicting the silent marches of 1960—powerful, moving, and easy to miss if you don’t know where to look.

• Rep. John Lewis Way
  Formerly 5th Avenue North, this stretch of road now honors the late Congressman and civil rights icon.

Extra Insight: Woolworth Theatre

Opened in 1925, the Woolworth building later became a focal point of the Civil Rights Movement in Nashville. Inside, you’ll find “Beyond the Counter,” a photo gallery created in partnership with the Nashville Public Library, documenting moments from downtown’s civil rights history.

• Gallery Hours: Fridays, 4:00 – 5:00 PM

• Group Reservations: info@woolworththeatre.com

Lunch Stop: Prince’s Hot Chicken at 5th & Broadway

After walking through history, you’re just steps away from one of Nashville’s most iconic dishes.

The downtown location of Prince’s Hot Chicken sits inside Assembly Food Hall at the 5th & Broadway complex.

The Story

In the 1930s, Thornton Prince’s girlfriend tried to punish his “womanizing” by covering his fried chicken in cayenne pepper. Instead of backing down, he loved it—and Nashville Hot Chicken was born.

Heat Levels (Choose Wisely 🔥)

• Plain / Light Mild: Flavor, minimal heat

• Mild / Medium: The classic Nashville kick

• Hot / X-Hot: For seasoned spice lovers

• XXX-Hot: Legendary—and not for beginners

First-timer tip: Mild or Medium is plenty.

Practical Info

• Hours: Typically 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM on MLK Monday

• Go-To Order: The Andre Chicken Sandwich (6oz breast, Hawaiian roll, slaw, pickles)

• Local Menu Mash-Up: Grab a Margherita pizza from DeSano Pizzeria next door and top it with sliced Prince’s tenders for an unofficial Nashville favorite.

Parking Tips for MLK Day Weekend Downtown

• Free Metered Street Parking: All day Monday, January 19

• 4th & Commerce Garage: 147 4th Ave N

• McKendree Garage: 140 6th Ave N

• Public Square Garage: 350 Deaderick St

• Music City Center Garage: 701 Demonbreun St

• Metro Courthouse Garage: $5 on Saturdays & Sundays (excluding special events)