URGENT UPDATE: The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia is set to honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a weekend of powerful programming from January 17 to January 19, 2026. This event will dive deep into King’s profound connections to the Declaration of Independence, marking a significant cultural moment as the nation prepares for its 250th anniversary.
The centerpiece of this MLK Weekend is the special exhibition titled “The Declaration’s Journey,” which showcases how the Declaration of Independence has been interpreted and challenged throughout American history. Among the remarkable artifacts on display is the actual metal prison bench used by King during his imprisonment in Birmingham in 1963, where he penned the iconic “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.” Visitors will also find an early distribution copy of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, directly linking the civil rights movement to the foundational ideals of the nation.
On Friday, January 16, the museum kicks off the weekend with “AmRev Presents: The Declaration’s Journey in Concert”, running from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.. This concert will blend music and storytelling to highlight leadership and civil rights movements throughout American history. Tickets include a reception and exclusive access to the exhibition.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can engage in a variety of activities that reflect on the Revolutionary era and its lasting impact on modern struggles for freedom and equality. Highlights include final viewings of Lemuel Haynes’ 1776 anti-slavery essay “Liberty Further Extended,” daily talks focused on the transformative power of words in social change, and a compelling theatrical performance about Elizabeth Freeman, a formerly enslaved woman who successfully sued for her freedom.
Educator-led gallery talks will explore the experiences of people of African descent from the Revolutionary period through the Civil Rights Movement, while family-friendly activities will engage visitors in themes of protest, poetry, and civic action. A special guided tour, “Black Voices of the Revolution,” will be available on Saturday and Sunday at noon for an additional fee.
All activities during the MLK Weekend are included with regular museum admission, making this an accessible opportunity for families and individuals to connect with history. The museum operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free entry for children ages 5 and under. Tickets are valid for two consecutive days, allowing ample time to experience everything the museum has to offer.
This MLK Weekend is not just a celebration; it’s a vital exploration of the ongoing quest for equality and justice in America. Don’t miss this chance to engage with history in a way that resonates deeply with today’s social movements.
For more information, visit the Museum of the American Revolution’s official website or plan your visit to 101 S 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19106. Share this news with friends and family to encourage participation in this important weekend of reflection and learning.
