On Sunday, Aug. 3, the Black Bottom community will host a day of remembrance, celebration, and neighborhood activation to mark the 60th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic 1965 visit to the neighborhood. Themed “Honoring Rev. Dr. King’s Legacy in the Black Bottom—60 Years Later,” the event will center on community engagement, cultural storytelling, and the preservation of neighborhood history.

Planned in partnership with community leaders, institutions, area businesses, and grassroots organizations, this commemorative event will take place at 40th and Haverford and surrounding areas in the Black Bottom. A rich lineup of programming between 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. will include live performances, spoken word, storytelling, wellness services, free classes, food trucks, and a historical guide along Dr. King’s 1965 route through the neighborhood.

Joe Matthews was a little boy pushing his way through the crowd to Rev. Dr King. After working with Mural Arts for a mural to remember this day he believes,

“It’s very important for the community to have a visual reminder of Dr. King to remind us of his historic visit and that he cared enough about our community to add it to The Freedom Now Tour,” he said.

Highlights of the day include:

• “Then & Now” photo installation showcasing legacy of Black Bottom residents
• Oral history booths
• Artist showcases featuring civil rights–inspired work and MLK tribute at Silk Tent
• Wellness stations offering hair and scalp exams, free medical testing, and emergency preparedness at LaPearl Beauty Emporium Inc
• Live music, plant repots specials, resources, children’s art and more at Plant and People
• Street activation with food trucks, youth activities, storefront exhibits, and resource tables
• Free Philly Track Jawn 2K, 5K and 10K walk or run through Mantua on Saturday, Aug. 2 starting at 7:30 a.m.

Community members of all ages are invited to participate in this historic tribute. This event also launches a call for stories, photos, and memorabilia from residents past and present to preserve and elevate the rich legacy of the Black Bottom.