Updated for 2026
"Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love." - Martin Luther King, Jr.
On Monday, January 19, we honor the birthday of the late civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. From special events to embracing the outdoors, there are various ways to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
While the holiday falls on a Monday, numerous service projects are taking place not only in Fairfax County but also in the Washington, DC area throughout the entire weekend, offering opportunities to pay tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr.
Now is the moment for reflection and finding ways to help others and give back to the community. Here's how to get started.
Service Projects in Fairfax County
January 17: Reston Community Center Day of Service
Reston Community Center invites everyone to come together to celebrate Dr. King's legacy through acts of service. RCC is collaborating with the Reston Association, Cornerstones, and The Closet for community service initiatives on January 17. Indoor tasks include sorting and arranging items from The Closet and preparing bag lunches for the Embry Rucker Community Shelter. Beyond indoor activities, there will be opportunities for outdoor projects, including cleaning up nearby pathways and other outdoor areas. Registration is required through Reston Association.
Later that afternoon, the Annual Musical Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will take place, featuring music by African American composers, soloist Alia Waheed (New York Metropolitan Opera) and selections from “Out of Africa” and “Wicked.” Buy tickets here.
January 19: Volunteer Fairfax 2026 MLK Day of Service
Volunteer Fairfax plans to honor Dr. King's vision of a "Beloved Community" by discovering impactful ways to give a helping hand - and by turning Compassion into Action. The 2026 MLK Day of Service kicks off with a family-friendly volunteer event on January 19. Don't wait, register now!
January 19: Frying Pan Farm Park's MLK Service and Learning Day
Frying Pan Farm Park pays tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. with a Service and Learning Day on January 19. Guests who register can participate in interactive stations to learn about the Civil Rights Movement and engage in community service projects. This special event provides families with the opportunity to come together, contribute to the community, and enjoy some family-friendly fun. All participants must be registered.
Make a Difference in the Greater Washington, DC Area
Service projects are taking place beyond Fairfax County, extending to areas like Arlington, Alexandria, and neighboring D.C., ensuring that this day of service is acknowledged throughout the DMV.
Arlington and Washington, DC Area
All are welcome to join the Friends of Anacostia Park and Casey Trees on January 19 to celebrate King's legacy by caring for the young trees in the area! Lend a helping hand with mulching, watering, and weeding the saplings to help grow the park's tree canopy. You can also hop to Potomac Conservancy at Anacostia Park on this Day of Service with a litter clean-up to create a healthier ecosystem. At Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, there is something for everyone to help conserve this urban oasis with trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and litter cleanup. Learn more about all these opportunities here!
Volunteer Arlington Day of Service
Presented by Volunteer Arlington, MLK Day of Service will be brimming with volunteer opportunities from helping pack snack bags to gardening projects. Check out the list of service projects for more information and to volunteer.
This weekend embraces the spirit of service and community engagement, as it is marked as “A Day On, Not A Day Off.” There are many activities and events taking place throughout the MLK Day weekend in the DC area and Northern Virginia. And of course, don't forget to pay your respects at the astonishing Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial located along Washington, DC's beautiful Tidal Basin.
What will you be doing to pay it forward this MLK Holiday Weekend? Let us know in the comments below or share with us on social media using #FXVA and @VisitFairfax.
