URGENT UPDATE: The Museum of the American Revolution invites visitors to immerse themselves in the profound connections between Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Declaration of Independence during a special weekend of events from January 17 to January 19, 2026. This vibrant programming is part of the museum’s celebration of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary and promises to be an enlightening experience for all.
The centerpiece of this dynamic weekend is the exhibition “The Declaration’s Journey,” which explores the evolving interpretations and challenges of the Declaration of Independence over the years. This exhibition features significant artifacts, including the actual metal prison bench used by Rev. Dr. King during his incarceration in Birmingham in 1963 while drafting the iconic “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.” Additionally, visitors can view an early distribution copy of King’s legendary “I Have a Dream” speech, showcasing the powerful legacy of his words.
Kicking off the weekend, the museum will host “AmRev Presents: The Declaration’s Journey in Concert” on Friday, January 16, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. This concert intertwines music and storytelling, illuminating the leadership and civil rights movements that have shaped American history. Tickets include a reception and exclusive access to the special exhibition, making it a must-attend event.
Throughout MLK Weekend, attendees can participate in a variety of engaging activities including short talks, gallery tours, and performances that link the Revolutionary era to contemporary struggles for freedom and equality. Exciting highlights feature a final chance to view Lemuel Haynes’ 1776 anti-slavery essay, “Liberty Further Extended,” along with daily discussions on the transformative power of words in social change.
A first-person theatrical performance about Elizabeth Freeman, a formerly enslaved woman who successfully sued for her freedom, will also be presented. Educator-led gallery talks will delve into the experiences of individuals of African descent from the Revolutionary period through the Civil Rights Movement, while family-friendly activities will engage visitors in topics of protest, poetry, and civic action.
For those seeking a deeper connection, a guided “Black Voices of the Revolution” gallery tour will be available on both Saturday and Sunday at noon for an additional fee. All the exciting MLK Weekend activities are included with standard museum admission, unless noted otherwise.
The Museum of the American Revolution is located at 101 S 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19106 and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children ages 5 and under can enter for free, and all tickets are valid for two consecutive days, offering ample opportunity to experience this enlightening programming.
Don’t miss this chance to explore the vital connections between Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the principles of the Declaration of Independence. Mark your calendars for January 17-19, 2026, and join in honoring the ongoing fight for equality and justice.
