When Is Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
Next Martin Luther King Jr. Day (2027)
Monday, January 18, 2027
Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on the third Monday in January. It is a US federal holiday.
About Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the civil rights leader who led the push for equal rights through nonviolent protest. Dr. King was born on January 15, 1929, and the holiday is set for the third Monday of January so it always lands close to his birthday.
President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law in 1983, and it was first observed nationwide in 1986. Every state recognized it by 2000. Many people spend it volunteering, which is why it is often described as a day on rather than a day off. Federal offices, banks and most schools close.
How the Date Is Set
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is held on the third Monday in January. Because the rule is based on a weekday, the calendar date changes from year to year.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Dates for the Next 10 Years
Plan Around Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Print the month so the date is in front of you, or see every holiday for the year.