With area schools closed Monday in remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr., many Ann Arbor parents are looking to plan activities for the kids or the entire family. Thankfully the area has many free events that are both educational and fun. Check out some of the many activities for kids to celebrate King's life and legacy.

Many of the libraries are providing MLK programming for the day, starting with a free movie and craft project at the Ypsilanti District Library (229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti) 1:30-4:30 p.m. - Watch ‘Ruby Bridges’ followed by TAG members reading excerpts from MLK’s I Have a Dream speech, and craft projects. For more information on this drop-in program, visit your local YDL branch or call 482-4110 ext. 1390.

The Ann Arbor District Library is also providing a wonderful program with local author Paula Young Shelton. From 2-3 p.m. at the Downtown Library (343 South Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor), Shelton will be discussing her book "Child Of The Civil Rights Movement," bringing a child's perspective to an inspirational chapter of America's history. This event also includes a book signing.

If an afternoon full of activities is what your teen is looking for, consider taking them to the Drop-In Wii Sports and Crafts for Kids and Teens at the Dexter District Library (3255 Alpine St., Dexter) from 1-3 p.m. Kids and teens ages 8 and up, can play Wii Sports (Bowling, Tennis and Baseball), enjoy snacks or create a unique craft project! For more information, call 734-426-4477.

Music is a wonderful way to fill the day and celebrate the man with a dream. At 2 p.m. at the University of Michigan Power Center (121 Fletcher St., Ann Arbor), the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance is hosting a free musical celebration of King. For more information call 734-763-3333 or check the calendar of all MLK events at the University of Michigan happening throughout the day.

For families who can not participate in a daytime celebrations, consider taking your family to a free MLK Day Celebration at the Ypsilanti District Library (5577 Whittaker Road, Ypsilanti) from 5:30-8:30 p.m. to hear patriotic and freedom songs, watch a documentary and celebrate during this free event for the whole family.

Trinity Episcopal Church (11575 Belleville Road, Belleville) is also hosting an evening performnace at 7 p.m. The dramatic performance of King's speeches entitled "The Dream Lives On" is a joyful celebration of the life and legacy of King. Enjoy dramatic presentations of excerpts from his well known speeches as well as powerful music and audience participation.

Tammy Mayrend is a Ann Arbor search marketing professional and mother of two who blogs on low-cost local activities, events and Ann Arbor area freebies for families at annarbormom.com.