January 17, 2025

Knoxville Kicks Off 43rd Annual King Week Celebration

News Summary

The city of Knoxville is set to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the 43rd Annual King Week Celebration. Starting January 3, the week features numerous events, including an art exhibition, interfaith services, leadership awards, and youth engagement activities. With a theme of ‘Beyond the Dream: Empowering the Beloved Communities,’ this vibrant celebration aims to honor King’s legacy and unite the community in a series of reflective and inspiring gatherings culminating in the Memorial Tribute Service on January 20.

Knoxville Celebrates 43rd Annual King Week with a Flurry of Events

Knoxville, Tennessee, is buzzing with excitement as it kicks off the 43rd Annual King Week Celebration, organized by the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Commission. This beloved series of events pays homage to the incredible legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and promises to bring the community together through a vibrant lineup of activities.

Mark Your Calendars!

Mark your calendars because Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be observed on January 20, 2025, and Knoxville is celebrating like never before! The festivities kicked off on January 3 with an opening reception for the 10th Annual Gallery of Arts Tribute. Art enthusiasts can enjoy this colorful exhibition that will be displayed until the end of January, showcasing works that reflect the themes of justice and unity.

Interfaith Service: A Gathering of Hearts

On January 15, community members participated in an Interfaith Service, which served as a powerful opening event designed to unite people from all walks of life. This heartwarming gathering allowed individuals to come together in worship, celebrating the diversity that enriches Knoxville.

A Day of Leadership and Inspiration

The 2025 Thomas “Tank” Strickland Leadership Awards Luncheon, emceed by popular anchor Tearsa Smith on January 16, highlighted local leaders making a difference. This year’s Leadership Educational Symposium also promises to be a noteworthy event, featuring experts discussing pressing social justice issues. Scheduled for January 16 from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM at the University of Tennessee Student Union, this symposium is expected to foster important conversations that inspire change.

Engaging the Youth!

The youth are stepping into the spotlight during King Week as local middle and high school students engage in an oratorical contest, organized in partnership with the Knoxville Chapter of Jack & Jill of America. This initiative encourages young voices to articulate their thoughts on social issues, showcasing the potential of future leaders.

A Musical Celebration

The week is filled with the sounds of celebration featuring performances by the MLK Mass Youth Choir, the University of Tennessee Gospel Choir, and the Austin East Dance Ministry. These dynamic performances will uplift spirits and remind everyone of the power of unity and community.

Marking the Tribute and the Community Spirit

As the week comes to a close, a Memorial Tribute Service will take place on January 20 at Overcoming Believers Church, concluding the week-long festivities. Attendees will have the chance to see community awards presented, with Rev. Leah Burns serving as the keynote speaker, setting the tone for a reflective and inspiring end to the celebration.

Exploring the Theme: “Beyond the Dream”

This year’s theme, “Beyond the Dream: Empowering the Beloved Communities”, is more than just a phrase. It embodies the spirit of the celebration and the steps everyone can take toward making Dr. King’s dream a reality in their own neighborhoods. With events thoughtfully organized since 1982, this series is known as the largest commemorative series in East Tennessee.

What to Look Forward To

Here’s a quick glimpse of the upcoming events:

January 16, 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Leadership Educational Symposium at the University of Tennessee Student Union.
January 17, 7 PM: Community Forum at the Beck Cultural Exchange Center.
January 18, 9 AM – 1:30 PM: Youth Symposium at Austin East High School.
January 19, 6 PM – 8 PM: Night with the Arts Tribute at Community Evangelistic Church.
January 20, Noon – 2 PM: MLK Memorial Tribute Service at Overcoming Believers Church.

Most events are free to the public, providing an excellent opportunity for everyone to participate, except for the sold-out Thomas “Tank” Strickland Leadership Awards Luncheon. Mark your calendars because Knoxville’s King Week is a celebration of community, progress, and unity!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Knoxville’s Able Trade Empowers Local Creators
Community Support and Local Leadership Shine in Knoxville
Winter Farmers Market Returns to Knoxville
Winter Storm Sweeps Through Knoxville: A Whirlwind of Snow and School Closures
Knoxville Celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. and Japanese Culture
Knoxville Postal Service Resumes Deliveries After Storm
Devastating Wildfires in Los Angeles: A Community Rallying Together
Tragedy Strikes Southern California as Wildfires Rage On
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra to Showcase Mahler’s Masterpieces
Nourish Knoxville Winter Farmers Market Returns This Weekend

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER

The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit