MLK Day at the MFA
Join the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, on Monday, January 20, 2025, for its annual MLK Day Open House, presented in partnership with Citizens. This event offers free admission for Massachusetts residents, giving visitors the opportunity to explore art, community, and culture while honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Celebrate the power of art and creativity with a day full of performances, guided tours, art-making activities, and special talks reflecting on themes of justice, equity, and love. Don’t miss the chance to view the special exhibit “Georgia O’Keeffe and Henry Moore” during this community-focused event.
Event Details
Date: Monday, January 20, 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Tickets: Tickets available in person on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission is free with a valid Massachusetts zip code.
Event Highlights & Featured Activities
Drop-In Art Making: “Stained Glass” Doves | 10 AM – 4 PM
- Location: Druker Family Pavilion
- Create window-hanging art inspired by the style of stained glass and the dove, a universal symbol of peace and unity.
Guided Tours of the MFA | 11 AM, 12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM
- Location: Meet at Sharf Visitor Center
- Join a knowledgeable guide for a 60-minute tour exploring highlights from the MFA’s vast collections. Tours are open to all ages and experience levels.
La Comparsa de Hyde Square Task Force | 11 AM & 12:15 PM
- Location: Shapiro Family Courtyard
- Enjoy vibrant Afro-Latin music and dance traditions rooted in Caribbean street celebrations, performed by the Hyde Square Task Force Youth Ambassadors.
Radical Heroes | 11:15 AM, 1 PM, 2:15 PM
- Location: Gallery 168
- Experience poetry and music performances by ArtSpark Boston, reflecting on Dr. King’s radical vision for racial justice and transformative change.
Teen-Led Art Talks | Various Times
- Explore artwork with a new perspective in these youth-led talks:
- Flight of Man (Gallery 328): A Jackson Pollock ceramic bowl (12:30 PM).
- Stop Racism Now (Gallery 155): A 1970 poster advocating for racial equality (1 PM).
- Peculiar (Gallery 261): Yoshitomo Nara’s signature acrylic painting (1:15 PM).
Wee Wear the Crowns Art-Making Workshop | 1 PM – 3 PM
- Location: Riley Seminar Room
- Join Wee the People for a family-friendly workshop inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat’s iconic crown motif. Create your own gold or silver crown to take home and celebrate Black joy and heroes.
Live Music and DJ Performances
- The Color of Love | 1 PM – 2:15 PM
- Location: Shapiro Family Courtyard
- A youth-driven musical performance by ZUMiX and Beat the Odds exploring love and community.
DJ Slick Vick | 2:30 PM – 4 PM
- Location: Shapiro Family Courtyard
- Celebrate the day with an energetic, high-vibe DJ set from Boston’s own Slick Vick.
Plan Your Visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115
Enjoy accessible public transit options and nearby parking for a seamless visit.
Upcoming MFA Events
Can’t make it to First Fridays this month? Check out more MFA events happening throughout the season to experience Boston’s art scene in new and exciting ways.
Links:
465 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA, 02115