MLK Weekend of Service 2026

Volunteers work at Fort Funston

Maria Durana/Parks Conservancy

“Not everybody can be famous but everybody can be great, because greatness is determined by service.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

When: Friday, January 16 – Monday, January 19, 2026.

Where: Project locations vary throughout the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) in the San Francisco Bay Area. Stay up to date on park closure information. 

Join us in January to make MLK Day a "day on, not a day off". We'll be celebrating the Civil Rights leader’s life and legacy all weekend with volunteer and engagement programs from Friday, January 16 - Monday, January 19, 2026. Volunteers of all ages are invited to take part in park maintenance, habitat restoration, nursery work, and other outdoor service projects at some of the GGNRA’s most iconic parks. Whether you’re looking for MLK Day volunteer opportunities, family-friendly service projects, or ways to give back outdoors, there’s something for everyone. Bring yourself, your friends, and your family to kick off the new year and take part in your community on this National Day of Service! Most events require pre-registration.

Groups

In addition to the public programs listed below, we have a number of group opportunities taking place over the weekend. If your group is interested, we encourage you to review the List of Available Projects and fill out the Group Project Request Form. Groups of five or more require special arrangements and must be confirmed in advance.

COVID & Winter Cold Specific Guidelines

• Stay home and DO NOT attend if you: have any illness symptoms, have tested positive for COVID-19 or other viruses, or suspect you have had contact with a COVID-19 positive case.
• Face coverings and social distancing are encouraged, but not required.

The Golden Gate National Parks Volunteer Program is a cooperative parkwide effort of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, the National Park Service, and the Presidio Trust.