MLK Weekend Fun: History, Ice Fishing, Theater, and More

1/13/16 - By Clementina Verge

It’s the middle of January and the nearly snowless winter continues, making some of us a bit unhappy. But not to worry – even without sledding or outdoor ice skating, there’s plenty to cheer us up. This weekend, your family can put on dancing shoes and enjoy Free Dance Classes, or, to keep up with the musical theme, dance in your seat during a reggae children’s musical production of Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds.

The historically-minded can enjoy a free visit to the Yale Peabody Museum for its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Legacy of Environmental and Social Justice event. A special theatrical performance, the “Struggle for Freedom: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr.,” will take place at Silas Bronson Library in Waterbury, and a free showing of "Our Friend Martin", an animated adventure inspired by Dr. King, will entertain children at the Stanley-Whitman House in Farmington.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2016 Celebrations are taking place across the state, so be sure to check our Events Calendar. To keep up with the latest family-friendly events and activities, be sure to also sign up for our newsletters, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest
 

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

All Weekend

Disney on Ice Presents “Let’s Celebrate” – Hartford County 
Beginning Wednesday, more than 50 Disney characters will take the ice at the XL Center, in a showcase of beloved Disney princesses and villains.

Harry Potter All Day Film Festival – Fairfield County 
Join the New Canaan Library for movie magic. Choose one movie to watch or stay for an entire day of flicks and snacks. Free.

Skulls, Skins, and Scat – Windham County 
View a collection of preserved mounts and pelts, skulls, and other signs of wildlife found in northeast Connecticut. Learn about animal tracks and the Connecticut Audubon Society's Citizen Science Wildlife Tracking and Monitoring Program.

The Jungle Book at Downtown Cabaret Children’s Theater – Fairfield County 
Join this rock and roll party in the middle of the jungle where orphan Mowgli is raised by animals and learns the true meaning of home and family.

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella – Hartford County 
This lush and hilarious Broadway production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations, and all the moments you love - the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more - plus some surprising new twists.

Saturday 

Demo Day at Ski Sundown – Litchfield County 
Snowboarding fans unite: Never Summer is back with an awesome collection of boards to take for a test ride before you decide to buy. Free.

Fandom Fun at Wethersfield Library – Hartford County 
Star Wars and Paw Patrol fans of all ages are invited to drop in anytime and participate in activities based on both series. Free.

Family Game Days at Mystic Aquarium – New London County 
Turn yourself into a human pretzel during a round of Get Knotted and watch out for tumbling blocks when playing Giant Tower. Enjoy super-sized games alongside your favorite exhibits. Free for aquarium members.

Enjoying Nature in Winter – New Haven County 
Enjoy a stroll through the woods at the West Rock Nature Center and experience the beauty of nature during the cooler months. Open to all ages. Free.

Dinner and a Movie at Winding Trails – Hartford County 
Take the family out for a great dinner served in front of a big screen showing the movie Minions. Reservations required.

All Saturday Events

Sunday 

Hearthside Afternoons at Stanley-Whitman House – Hartford County
Warm by the fire, play board games, enjoy a warm beverage, and take a self-guided tour of the historical house. Free.

Family Ice Fishing Workshop – Litchfield County 
Learn about water, fish and fishing, how to think like a fish, all while having safe fun. Bring a lunch and dress for the weather. Pre-registration required. Free.

Sunday Fun at JCC of Greater New Haven – New Haven County 
Enjoy family swim, open gym, family Zumba, a family movie, and other monthly specials. Free for members.

A Billion Bricks: LEGO Galactic Travels – Fairfield County 
The amazing LEGO universe returns to the Stamford Museum & Nature Center celebrating the 15th anniversary of LEGO Star Wars and featuring 500 mini-figurines, including one of every Star Wars mini-fig ever produced. See authentic space ships, original set boxes, and movie memorabilia.

All Sunday Events

Monday

Martin Luther King Day Open House at Harriet Beecher Stowe Center – Hartford County 
Enjoy free tours and hands-on activities and programs throughout the day. Engage in thought-provoking conversations and participate in the noontime bell ringing for peace. Free.

Martin Luther King Vacation Workshop - Litchfield County
Children in grades K-5 are invited to spend the day at Flanders Nature Center, discovering the many ways animals adapt to winter. 

MLK Day of Service: Letters for Troops - Fairfield County
Write a note of thanks or encouragement to active, reserve, and veteran military service members. Darien Library will provide everything needed to create a card. Just bring your kind words. Free.

Martin Luther King Jr. Family Day Celebration - Fairfield County
Participate in educational activities throughout the day and enjoy two performances by the Bright Star Theatre Company.

Have a beautiful weekend!