Meadowland Park to Shine Bright with Largest MLK Day Luminary Display in SOMA

[South Orange, NJ] — Meadowland Park will be transformed into a breathtaking tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as the community comes together for the largest MLK Day luminary display in South Orange and Maplewood (SOMA). In partnership with the Community Coalition on Race, this powerful installation will illuminate the park with hundreds of luminaries, enhanced by special lighting and video projections made possible through equipment donated by the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC).

Each luminary will carry a dual purpose: not only will they light up the night in honor of Dr. King’s legacy, but they will also serve as a beacon of hope for those in need. Every luminary will be weighted down with canned food, which will be donated to a local food pantry following the event.

Community members are encouraged to participate by bringing canned food donations to the Skate House beginning at 2 PM on Saturday, January 20. The event will culminate in a ceremonial lighting at 5 PM, featuring local officials, after which attendees are invited to explore the luminous installation throughout the park.

We honor Dr. King’s message of service, unity, and hope—one light at a time.