How many days until Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
About Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday of January, near King's January 15 birthday. Signed into law in 1983 and first observed in 1986, it honors the civil rights leader who championed nonviolent resistance to racial segregation.
It is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service — 'a day on, not a day off' — with millions of Americans volunteering in their communities. All 50 states have observed it since 2000.
When is Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2027
Monday, January 18, 2027
Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2028
Monday, January 17, 2028
Frequently Asked Questions
When is MLK Day?
Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on the third Monday of January, between January 15 and January 21 — always near King's actual birthday, January 15.
Why is MLK Day called a day of service?
In 1994 Congress designated the holiday a National Day of Service. The motto 'a day on, not a day off' encourages Americans to honor King's legacy through volunteering.
How many days until Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
There are 189 days until Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Monday, January 18, 2027).
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About the Data
Holiday dates are calculated using established algorithms and verified against official sources. Variable-date holidays (like Easter and Ramadan) use astronomical or tabular formulas. For religious observance, always confirm with your local authority. Read our full methodology.