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Did you know Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. visited Winston-Salem twice during the Civil Rights Movement? Continue reading to discover more about his visits and learn about upcoming events that commemorate his legacy.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Winston-Salem Visits
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s first visit to Winston-Salem was on October 11, 1962. He gave a speech at Wake Forest University’s Wait Chapel on the integration of the South, which was timely considering the school had just admitted its first Black student that year.
- Bonus: You can listen to the speech he delivered exclusively at the Z. Smith Reynolds Library on Wake Forest’s campus.
The second time Dr. King visited Winston-Salem was on April 13, 1964, at Goler Metropolitan AME Zion Church. Over 1,000 people attended to hear his speech, which focused on voting and nonviolent protests.
- Pro-tip: You can visit the church to find a marker commemorating the event.
Martin Luther King, Jr. 2026 Events
Several events are taking place to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy in Winston-Salem.
Keep Moving Forward: MLK Service | Mount Tabor United Methodist Church | Monday, Jan 19 | 4 PM
- Celebrate Dr. King’s legacy through song and spoken word.
MLK Prayer Breakfast | Benton Convention Center | Monday, Jan 19 | 7:30 AM
- Join the Winston-Salem Chronicle for breakfast and prayer.
MLK Birthday Celebration | Hanesbrands Theatre | Monday, Jan 19 | 7 PM
- NC Black Rep brings top performing arts talent from across the Triad! Admission is free with three non-perishable food donations.
MLK Day Read-In | Winston-Salem State University | Saturday, Jan 24 | 10 AM | Registration closes Monday, Jan 19
- K–5th graders are paired with a reading buddy for engaging educational activities. Each child also receives an age-appropriate book and a civil rights-themed book!
Interested in learning more about Winston-Salem’s history? Check out our museum guide!
