Ames/Story County Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

Martin Luther King Day (MLK) is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of January. It celebrates the life and achievements of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an influential American civil rights leader. He is most well known for his campaigns to end racial segregation on public transport and for racial equality in the United States.

2026 Ames/Story County Community Celebration

Monday, January 19
6:30 p.m.
Ames City Auditorium, 520 Sixth St. (north side of City Hall)
Birthday cookies will be served in the City Hall Gymnasium at 6 p.m.

The event will be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube. 

Essay Contest Now Open!

The Ames-Story County MLK Day Celebration Committee is hosting its 6th Annual Essay Writing Contest to commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All Ames/Story County area high school students (grades 9-12) are invited and encouraged to participate.

Contest topic: How has Dr. King, Jr.'s advocacy impacted your life, which helps motivate and inspire you to continue his legacy?

Deadline is Sunday, Dec. 7 at 11:59 p.m.

Winners will be announced Monday, Jan. 12, 2026.

The top three (3) essays will be published on the official MLK website and social media. The winner will be invited to read their essay at the MLK Celebration on Jan. 19 at  Ames City Hall Auditorium. Second and third-place winners will be invited and recognized at the celebration.

Please note that all winners under 18 will be required to have their parent/guardian complete a promotion release form.

1st place prize: $500

2nd place prize:$300

3rd place prize: $200

View Contest Instructions(PDF, 231KB)

Contest Release Form(PDF, 156KB)

Essay Application(PDF, 257KB)