The beginning of a new year causes people to reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to how this year will impact them.  Others may wonder how they will impact the world around them, whether in their family or communities.  If you are looking to leave a legacy for future generations, a great example to learn from is Martin Luther King, Jr., a man who spent his life spreading a message of peace, tolerance and racial equality.

Throughout Ohio there are a number of events that commemorate the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 16. Bring the family to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, where visitors can enjoy a free concert by local and national artists who honor Dr. King through music and dance.  In Columbus, the King Arts Complex MLK Open House allows visitors of all ages to hear music, see live performances and learn about the civil rights movement.

The history of African-Americans, however, extends far before the civil rights movement.   Take your family on an educational journey at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, where you can learn about black history and the hardships of slavery at the Slavery to Freedom exhibit.  Or visit the Rankin House in Ripley, a stop on the Underground Railroad that housed thousands of slaves escaping to freedom. You can also celebrate Black History Month at the Victoria Theatre in Dayton where, for the whole month of February, the art exhibit, Visual Voices, salutes notable African-American Ohioans who have made important contributions to the city of Dayton.

Whether celebrating Martin Luther King  Jr. day or Black History Month, Ohio has plenty of things to do.  Visit our What’s Hot tab and start Livin’ For The Weekend in Ohio.