Martin Luther King Jr. Day
A day to reflect on civil rights and service.
When is Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2026?
Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Monday, January 19, 2026. It falls on the third Monday in January.
About the day
The holiday honors the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr. Communities mark the occasion through learning, reflection and service projects.
Make a note
Look for a local volunteer opportunity or spend time learning about the civil rights movement.
Is it a federal holiday?
Yes. This date is included in the nationwide federal holiday schedule. Private businesses and schools may follow different schedules.
Dates at a glance
| Year | Calendar date | Federal observed date |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Mon, Jan 20 | Mon, Jan 20 |
| 2026 | Mon, Jan 19 | Mon, Jan 19 |
| 2027 | Mon, Jan 18 | Mon, Jan 18 |
| 2028 | Mon, Jan 17 | Mon, Jan 17 |
Date reference: U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Dates are calculated from the rules described above.