YMCA of the Triangle

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FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
FOR HEALTHY LIVING
FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

MLK Weekend Events 2025

 

National Day of Racial Healing 

Saturday, Jan. 17, 8:30 - 10 a.m.
First Chronicles Community Church (Durham)

For the third consecutive year, the YMCA will host a community gathering in recognition of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s National Day of Racial Healing. Featuring a keynote address from Rev. Chalice Overy of Pullen Memorial Baptist Church and a musical performance, the event brings people together to reflect, engage in dialogue and inspire action toward a more just and equitable world. Hosted at First Chronicles Community Church in Durham, the gathering is co-hosted by North Carolina Central University, the Triangle MLK Committee and the Durham MLK Committee and sponsored by Wells Fargo.

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Teen Day of Service

The YMCA and the United Way of the Greater Triangle are teaming up with community partners to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King with the MLK Teen Day of Service: “A Day On, Not A Day Off.” Teens from the Y Community are invited to come together as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a day of meaningful service and reflection. The MLK Teen Day of Service empowers young people to give back through hands-on volunteer projects.

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YMCA Branch Events

Our YMCA branches are hosting events throughout the day including meal packing, community clean-up days and blood drives. See below for an opportunity near you. More events to be added in January!

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46th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebrations

Join your community with a variety of events held in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. These events are held in conjunction with the Triangle MLK Committee. 

Wreath Laying Ceremony

Friday, Jan. 16, 9 a.m. 
1215 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Raleigh

Join this gathering of local leaders, clergy, and community for the Triangle MLK Holiday Weekend kickoff event and wreath-laying ceremony at the statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to honor his life and as a symbol of solidarity towards achieving a more beloved community. 

Interfaith Prayer Breakfast

Monday, Jan. 19, 7 – 9 a.m. 
Sheraton Imperial Hotel, Durham

The YMCA of the Triangle is a co-sponsor of the annual breakfast presented by the Triangle MLK Committee that brings together community members and leaders in celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s enduring legacy. A Lightner Y Achievers teen will be among the slate of speakers in the first half of the program.

Keynote speaker: Rev. Jemonde Taylor

  • Doors open at 6 a.m. Breakfast is available until 8 a.m.
  • The program starts at 7:15 a.m.

Memorial March

Monday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. 
Downtown Raleigh

The Lightner Y Achievers will lead the YMCA of the Triangle’s presence at the annual MLK Day March. March line-up begins at 10 a.m. with the event beginning at 11 a.m. from the State Capitol.