URGENT UPDATE: The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia is set to host an enlightening weekend exploring the vital connections between Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Declaration of Independence. From January 17 to January 19, 2026, visitors can engage in a series of impactful talks, performances, and exhibitions designed to highlight the ongoing journey for freedom and equality in America.
This year’s special programming coincides with the museum’s preparations for the nation’s 250th anniversary. At the heart of this celebration is the exhibition titled “The Declaration’s Journey,” which critically examines how the Declaration of Independence has evolved over time. Among the featured artifacts is a metal prison bench used by King during his incarceration in Birmingham in 1963, where he famously penned his “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.”
The weekend kicks off with a special concert event, “AmRev Presents: The Declaration’s Journey in Concert,” on Friday, January 16, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. This unique performance combines music and storytelling to trace the leadership and civil rights movements throughout American history. Concert tickets include a reception and access to the special exhibition, making it an event not to be missed.
Throughout Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend, the museum will also offer a variety of programming, including enlightening talks, guided gallery tours, and performances that draw connections between the Revolutionary era and contemporary struggles for justice. Highlights include a final viewing of Lemuel Haynes’ 1776 anti-slavery essay, “Liberty Further Extended,” and daily discussions focused on the power of language in social change.
One of the standout features will be a theatrical performance detailing the life of Elizabeth Freeman, a formerly enslaved woman who successfully sued for her freedom. Additionally, educator-led gallery talks will delve into the experiences of African descendants from the Revolutionary period through to the Civil Rights Movement.
Families can also participate in engaging activities centered around protest, poetry, and civic action. A guided tour, “Black Voices of the Revolution,” will be available on both Saturday and Sunday at noon for an additional fee.
All activities during MLK Weekend are included with regular museum admission, which ensures accessibility to everyone. The Museum of the American Revolution welcomes guests daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with children ages 5 and under admitted free of charge. All tickets are valid for two consecutive days, making it easy for families to explore at their own pace.
This weekend promises to be a profound journey into the heart of America’s quest for freedom—one that resonates deeply with the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore history and its relevance to today’s ongoing fight for equality.
For more information, visit the Museum of the American Revolution at 101 S 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19106 and join the conversation on social media.
