“A man dies when he refuses to stand up for that which is right. A man dies when he refuses to stand up for justice. A man dies when he refuses to stand up for that which is true.”
These profound words were delivered by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on March 8, 1965, during his speech in Selma, Alabama. The civil rights leader continues to have a lasting impact on the nation long after his untimely death, with his efforts to emancipate African Americans celebrated every January near his birthday.
Are you looking for ways to celebrate and honor King’s legacy? Here’s where you can in the Upstate, and what to know about the holiday this year.
When is Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2025?
Each year, MLK Jr. Day is on the third Monday of January. This year, the holiday falls on Jan. 20, coinciding with Inauguration Day.
What is closed on MLK Jr. Day?
∎ Nonessential government offices like public libraries, city offices, and the SCDMV.
∎ State and federal courthouses.
∎ Public schools and school districts.
∎ United States Postal Service (no regular deliveries).
∎ Most banks (ATM and online banking services will still be available).
Where to celebrate in Anderson
∎ Dream Day – MLK Day of Service: Make a difference in your community by participating in a neighborhood cleanup. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, Jan. 18 at the Westside Community Center from 8:30 a.m.-noon. Register for the cleanup here.
Where to celebrate in Greenville
∎ MLK Community Breakfast with L. Joy Williams: On Friday, Jan. 17 at 9 a.m., Furman University will be hosting a community breakfast featuring social justice advocate L. Joy Williams. Students can attend this event for free. Registration closes on Jan. 14. For information on ticket prices and registration, visit this link.
∎ Dream Big Wellness, Literacy, and Tech Summit for Youth: This summit will empower the next generation with a focus on wellness, literacy, and technology. The free event will be held at the Phyllis Wheatley Center on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 11 a.m.
– Unity Weekend 2025 kicks off on Wednesday, January 15, with a series of events honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This annual celebration brings the community together through education, culture, and service, with events designed to inspire unity, leadership, and scholarship.
Key Events Include:
- Unity Worship Service – January 15, 7 p.m. at Springfield Baptist Church
- Unity Career & College Expo – January 16, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the University Center of Greenville
- MLK Scholarship Gala – January 17, 7 p.m. at Greenville Convention Center (Sold Out)
- Legacy Breakfast – January 18, 11 a.m.
- Unity HBCU Battle of the Bands – January 19, noon – 9 p.m. at Legacy Early College
- The Dream – A Living Exhibit & Tribute to MLK – January 20, 10 a.m. at McAlister Square. March starts at 10 a.m.
Where to celebrate in Spartanburg
∎ Walk As One: This annual event will be held at the Cleveland Park Event Center at 141 Cleveland Park Drive. Refreshments, activities, and more will follow the walk. The date for the walk is Saturday, January 18 at 9 a.m.
∎ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration: Come hear the words of civil rights icon Ruby Bridges at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, located on 385 N. Church St. The event will take place on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 3 p.m.
Nina Tran covers trending topics for The Greenville News. Reach her via email at ntran@gannett.com.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our community, many businesses and events in the Upstate SC have been forced to close or cancel. Here is a list of some closures and event cancellations in the area:
1. The Peace Center – All performances and events at The Peace Center have been canceled or postponed until further notice.
2. Swamp Rabbit Trail – The popular Swamp Rabbit Trail is still open for walking, running, and biking, but users are encouraged to practice social distancing and avoid crowded areas.
3. Greenville Zoo – The Greenville Zoo is closed to the public until further notice.
4. The Children’s Museum of the Upstate – The Children’s Museum of the Upstate is closed until further notice.
5. Greenville County Parks – Many parks and recreational facilities in Greenville County are closed, including playgrounds, picnic shelters, and basketball courts.
6. Greenville Drive – The Greenville Drive baseball season has been postponed indefinitely.
7. Spartanburg Downtown – Many events in downtown Spartanburg have been canceled or postponed, including Music on Main and Jazz on the Square.
It’s important to stay informed and follow guidelines from local health officials to help stop the spread of the virus. Stay safe and healthy, Upstate SC!
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