
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. shared a dream that has continued to inspire a nation: to bring justice where there is injustice, freedom where there is oppression, peace where there is violence and opportunity where there is poverty.
To commemorate King’s legacy, below is a list of events that highlight the importance of community service, reflection and dialogue, musical performances, children’s activities and more. Note: Fairfax County Government offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 20.
Saturday, Jan. 18
Community Service Projects
9 a.m. at the Cathy Hudgins Community Center
Join friends and neighbors in honoring Dr. King’s legacy by serving your community. As Dr. King said, “Everybody can be great … because anybody can serve.” Special projects support Cornerstones, The Closet and Reston neighborhoods. This free event is designed for residents 6 years and older. To volunteer, contact Ha Brock at 703-435-7986 or ha@reston.org.
Reston Community Orchestra’s Musical Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
4 p.m. at the Reston Community Center
With music and words specifically chosen for this occasion, the RCO honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The program will feature works by Duke Ellington, George Walker, Scott Joplin and William Grant Still. $18 Seniors/$25 Adults, free for youth and military. Tickets are available through the RCC Box Office.
Collage Dance Collective’s Performance of “RISE”
7 p.m. at the McLean Community Center’s Alden Theatre
A celebration of Dr. King’s life and legacy, this breathtaking neo-classical ballet is a moving and thought-provoking reflection of what we have overcome and where we go from here. Learn more and buy tickets.
Sunday, Jan. 19
Keynote Address presented by Angela Rye, Community Luncheon and World Premiere of “Generations Rise: Reston”
11 a.m., Reston Community Center
Known for her insightful commentary, Angela Rye, a prominent advocate for social justice, has collaborated with major civil rights organizations like the National Urban League and NAACP and has been featured in the New York Times. As the Principal and CEO of IMPACT Strategies, she focuses on political advocacy and racial equity. Her presentation will provide a significant perspective on contemporary issues in honor of Dr. King’s birthday. Tickets available through the RCC Box Office.
At the conclusion of the luncheon, RCC will screen the world premiere of “Generations Rise: Reston,” presented by the films’ Reston-based director Rebekah Wingert. As part of Ping Chong & Company’s "Undesirable Elements" series, this documentary explores the experiences of five Reston residents who share their stories of “unheard voices” in an effort to move our community forward in its pursuit of compassion and inclusion of all people.
MLK Birthday Celebration Especially for Youth
10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Reston Community Center
Children rotate through a series of activities, which includes a performance, age-appropriate video, and arts and crafts, that are based on the history of Dr. King and the civil rights movement. Lunch will be provided. Children should be registered in advance. If space permits, registration is available at the door.
Monday, Jan. 20
Trail and Sidewalk Clean Up Challenge
Do you ever pass by litter when you're out biking or walking? In honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, the Fairfax County Department of Transportation invites you to help clean up our trails and sidewalks around the county and pick up that litter! Preregister with Volunteer Fairfax to make sure you are counted, then bike or walk your favorite trail or neighborhood sidewalk in the county. Take a picture of your collected trash and email FCDOT for a chance to win a prize! More information.
Saturday, Jan. 25
Give Together: A Family-Friendly Day of Service
9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., James Lee Community Center
Families with children ages 5-12 will select from one of two sessions to come together to complete service projects hosted by Volunteer Fairfax as they learn about the work of several nonprofits serving the community. A "teen" focused session will also be available, designed to help ages 13-18 complete volunteer hours. Other projects completed will support a variety of mission areas including environmental stewardship, food insecurity, elder care, animal welfare and more. Youth will receive passports that are stamped as projects are completed, and there's also a reflection on Dr. King's legacy of service. See the full schedule and register online.