MLK Day 2026: Updates on Its Status as a Federal Holiday
Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed annually on the third Monday of January, honors the legacy of the prominent civil rights leader. In 2026, this federal holiday falls on January 19.
MLK Day Status as a Federal Holiday
Yes, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday. It was officially recognized after Ronald Reagan signed the bill into law on November 2, 1983. The first nationwide celebration occurred in 1986, though some states took longer to adopt it due to various challenges.
Adoption Timeline
- 1983: Bill signed into law by President Reagan.
- 1986: First nationwide observance of MLK Day.
- 1991: Texas officially acknowledged MLK Day.
- 2000: All 50 states recognized MLK Day.
The holiday stands out as the only federal observance designated as a national day of service, motivating Americans to volunteer in their local communities.
Changes to National Parks and MLK Day
As we move into 2026, the Trump administration has announced changes affecting federal holidays, including MLK Day. The Department of the Interior revealed that MLK Day would no longer be one of the designated “fee-free days” at national parks, meaning visitors will need to pay entrance fees on this day.
Fee-Free Days for 2026
Here is a list of the new fee-free days announced:
- January 9: National Day of Mourning for former President Jimmy Carter
- January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- April 19: First day of National Park Week
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 27: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
Flag Protocol for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the U.S. flag will not be lowered to half-staff. Flags are typically an indication of mourning, and MLK Day honors the legacy of Dr. King rather than serves as a day of mourning.
Historically, flags were lowered only after Dr. King’s assassination in 1968. President Lyndon B. Johnson ordered flags to be at half-staff from April 4 until April 9 to signify national mourning.
When Are Flags Lowered to Half-Staff?
- Memorial Day – until noon
- Patriot Day
- National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
- National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service Day
- Peace Officers Memorial Day
In summary, Martin Luther King Jr. Day remains a significant federal holiday in 2026, celebrated on January 19. Despite changes to national park fees, it continues to serve as a day of service and community engagement across the nation.
