INDIANA– The Indiana State Museum and its statewide historic sites will open their doors for free on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, to honor the life, legacy, and enduring contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Sponsored by the Lacy Foundation, this annual event invites Hoosiers to celebrate Dr. King’s spirit of collaboration and service through a day of reflection and community engagement.
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors to the Indiana State Museum can participate in a variety of interactive programs designed to inspire positive change. This year’s highlights include:
- Community Mural Project: Guests of all ages are invited to contribute to a large-scale mural, reflecting on Dr. King’s vision of unity.
- Reflecting on “America 250”: As the nation approaches its semiquincentennial, hands-on activities will help visitors reflect on the country’s past 250 years and the ongoing journey toward equity.
- Live Performances: Local artists will take the stage throughout the day, providing music and spoken word performances that honor the Civil Rights Movement.
In the spirit of Dr. King’s commitment to service, the museum is encouraging visitors to support Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. Financial contributions can be made online at wrsp.in/gleaners-ism to help provide meals for Hoosiers facing food insecurity.
Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the White River State Park garage located off Washington Street.
All open state historic sites across Indiana—from the Levi and Catharine Coffin House to Angel Mounds—will also offer free admission.
Visitors are encouraged to contact specific sites in advance to confirm tour availability and local programming.
