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JOHNSON CITY — A series of events is planned to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., with activities beginning this weekend and continuing through Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 20.

Ongoing Events

A countywide food drive supporting Good Samaritan Ministries and Jonesborough Area Ministerial Alliance Food Pantries is underway. Donations can be dropped off at the Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave., or the McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave., through Jan. 20.

Saturday, Jan. 18

The celebration kicks off with the annual Prayer Breakfast at 9:30 a.m. at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, 225 Princeton Road. This interfaith event will feature guest speaker Dr. Keith Johnson, reflecting on Dr. King’s legacy. Tickets are $15, with proceeds benefiting Carver Recreation Center’s annual youth trip to a Civil Rights Movement historic site. In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for Feb. 8.

Later that evening, a lecture titled Religion and the Civil Rights Movement by Dr. Lerone Martin will take place at Northeast State Community College in Blountville at 6 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 20

The day’s events begin with a Storytelling Concert at 10 a.m. at the Jackson Theatre, 121 W. Main St., Jonesborough. Designed for students in eighth grade and up, this free event uses storytelling and music to connect attendees to Dr. King’s vision.

At 1 p.m., a Unity Program and Peace Walk will be held at Carver Recreation Center. The 30-minute ceremony will be followed by a less-than-two-mile walk. In case of inclement weather, the event will move to Feb. 17.

The day concludes with a Community Dinner at 6 p.m. at Carver Recreation Center, honoring Dr. King’s legacy and celebrating community contributions.

Art Exhibit

The Vincent Dial Student Art Exhibit, featuring work from Washington County and Johnson City students inspired by Dr. King, will be on display at the McKinney Center from Jan. 20-23, with a public reception on Thursday, Jan. 23, from 6-8 p.m.

These events offer a chance to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy of justice, equality, and community service.