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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., speaking (ca. 1960-68) by the Scurlock Studio. Image courtesy of the Archives Center, National Museum of American History.

Friday, January 15:

Sorry kids, no special evening events happening today. But never fear—other stuff is here! Be sure to check this Web site for a listing of regularly scheduled Smithsonian fun.

Saturday, January 16: Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Three-Day Family Festival

Civil rights is an ongoing struggle, which is why it’s important to remember those who champion the fight to protect people from all forms of discrimination. One of those people is Martin Luther King, Jr. whose birthday is federally observed this upcoming Monday and to commemorate his memory, the American History Museum is offering a three-day festival of events. Come enjoy the museum’s interactive play Join the Student Sit-Ins and take the role of protesters during the movement that began at the Woolworths counter in Greensboro, North Carolina. Also be sure to check out the museum’s new interactive performance experience, Sing for Freedom.  In Flag Hall, come listen to the a cappella stylings of singing group, In Process…Lift Your Voice, and stay afterwards for the performance of To the Mountaintop, a presentation that brings to life again  the words and voice of Dr. King. These events will repeat on Sunday, January 17 and Monday, January 18.

Today—and today only—at 2 PM in Carmichael Auditorium, the museum and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture present an interview with Carlotta Walls Lanier. A member of the Little Rock Nine, she was one of the students who integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1959. Lanier will be discussing her autobiography Mighty Long Way and will be available afterwards for book signings. All events are free. Seating for the Carlotta Walls Lanier event will be first come, first served. American History Museum, 10:00 AM-5:30 PM

Sunday, January 17: Winter Storytelling Festival: Sharing Our Stories

Storytelling is an ancient art form and those traditions are being kept alive at the American Indian Museum! Come on out and listen to Thirza Defoe, Perry Ground and Gene Tagaban spin tales with words, music song and dance and take part in activities designed for kids of all ages. Free. American Indian Museum, 10:30 AM-5:00 PM.

For more information on events and exhibitions at the Smithsonian museums, check our companion website, goSmithsonian.com, the official visitor’s guide to the Smithsonian.