How to spend Martin Luther King Jr. Day

In honor of civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr., Hillsborough County Public Schools take this special day off to celebrate his birthday. If you’re looking for ways to spend your day, read below.

1. Rogue One at MOSI IMAX Theater:

The latest story in the Star Wars chronicle brings us “Rogue One”, a story that takes place after “Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith” and before “Episode IV: A New Hope”. The experience of watching it in the famous IMAX Dome is an event unlike any other, so it is atop any list of things to do during the day off.

2. 17th Annual Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival

From now until Jan. 22, the Zenith Education group presents a 10 day celebration of African and African-American culture and history for both adults and children. On Jan. 16 is the Golf Classic, as well as Youth Night on Jan. 18, and the 5k Walk/Run on Jan. 21. The festival concludes with back to back Music Fest nights on the final two days.

3. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade

Starting from Cuscaden Park, ending at Middleton High school, this 2 mile stretch parade celebrates the life of Martin Luther King Jr., this year being the 28th anniversary. The parade includes bands from different places like Kingston, Jamaica.

4. Channelside

Every third Sunday of the month, Channelside hosts a Fresh Artisan market that includes free live entertainment, dining and local handcrafted items. The prime location- near downtown Tampa, the Tampa Riverwalk and Amalie Arena- makes it a hotspot for tourists and locals.