MLK Day Service Events and Outdoor Activities

Public domain image courtesy of the Library of Congress

Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. at one of these activities in and around Portland.

On Monday, January 20, 2025, celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. by giving back to your community, getting out into nature or connecting with community leaders and activists.

All of the community activities are free to attend and open to all ages, but you may need to register in advance. Follow each link to register and check for participation requirements.

Do you know of a local MLK Day event? Send me an email with the details.

2025 MLK Day Events in Portland

World Arts Foundation’s Martin Luther King Tribute

World Arts Foundation hosts a community event on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day every year. This year’s celebration features performances and speakers along with complimentary food, at the Hyatt Regency Portland from 11:3 a.m.-3 p.m. on Monday, January 20.

Reclaim Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day March

Join Don’t Shoot PDX for the 11th annual March for Human Rights and Dignity. The march starts at 1 p.m. at 700 North Rosa Parks Way in Portland.

SOLVE’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

Join the cleanup movement with SOLVE. On MLK Day, January 20, SOLVE is hosting events throughout the city, from litter cleanup to habitat restoration.

View all of SOLVE’s events and register.

MLK Day Volunteer Planting at Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership hosts a volunteer planting event on January 20. Plant native trees and shrubs to enhance the habitat at Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Washougal. Planting gloves, shovels, snacks and warm beverages are provided. 

The event is taking place from 9 a.m. to noon. Pre-registration is required.

Johnson Creek Watershed Council’s MLK Day of Service

To honor Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy, Johnson Creek Watershed Council invites community members to restore habitats at Powell Butte. Volunteers participate in planting and mulching. The event also focuses on fundraising for BIPOC-led organizations working for racial justice.

Gloves, tools and instruction are provided.

The event is at Powell Butte Natural Area from 9 a.m. to noon. Registration is required.

MLK Day Fruits of Diversity Orchard Work Party

Join Portland Fruit Tree Project to clean up at the Fruits of Diversity Orchard on January 20 from 10 a.m. to noon. Tasks include picking up trash and orchard debris, mulching and pulling out blackberry canes. Bring gloves and any tools that you want to use. There are some gloves and tools to borrow, too.

The event is at Fruits of Diversity Orchard in North Portland. Registration is required. 

MLK Day of Service Green Streets Cleanup

Attend Surfrider Foundation Portland Chapter and the City of Portland’s fifth MLK Day Clean Up on January 20 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Volunteers will pick up trash along Portland’s east side. There’s complimentary coffee and donuts for volunteers before the clean up. Bring a reusable cup.

The event starts at evo in Portland. Register in advance. 

Free Admission to Forest Service Recreation Areas

On January 20, get free parking at Forest Service recreation areas throughout Oregon and Washington. This includes Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood National Forest, Gifford Pinchot National Forest and 14 more forests.

Free Admission to National Parks

MLK Day also marks the first of five free entrance days to U.S. national parks. Visit Fort Vancouver, or another national park in Oregon or Washington.

Free Washington State Park Entrance

In 2025, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is offering outdoor enthusiasts 12 free days to get out and see the wild side of the Evergreen State. MLK Day is one of them.

Free Parking Day in Downtown Portland and Metro Parks

On MLK Day, metered street parking is free in all of Portland’s parking districts, except at city parks.

Also, Enjoy free parking at Oxbow and Blue Lake regional parks, Broughton Beach, M. James Gleason Memorial Boat Ramp and Chinook Landing Marine Park. View the activities you can do at each park.

Want more Portland freebies, events and deals? Subscribe to my newsletter (only one email a day), and follow me on Facebook and Instagram!