It was first proposed four days after King's 1968 assassination outside a Memphis motel. It took 15 years until it became a federal holiday.

Visitors participated in a number of activities, such as a scavenger hunt, and a special viewing of Dr. King's famous "I have a dream" speech.

Various communities and organizations across Central Illinois are planning to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this weekend ahead of the federal holiday honoring the late leader of the Civil Rights Movement.