The 23rd Freedom Classic Festival gets underway this week with family friendly activities celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The festival culminates Sunday, Jan. 14, with a basketball game between CIAA rivals Virginia Union University and Virginia State University.

Professionals in the areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, design and entrepreneurship will offer Richmond Public Schools students career advice through Thursday, Jan. 11, through STEM-ED Connects, a career mentorship program. They will talk about their own journeys and the paths they took toward their careers.

From 7 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, MEGA Mentors will sponsor a fine art sale and silent auction at the Hippodrome Theater, 528 N. 2nd St., to benefit its programs helping students in Chesterfield County.

From 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, high school students can attend the Freedom Classic Festival Leadership Summit at the Dominion Energy Arts Center, 600 E. Grace St. The free summit is designed to inform, empower and motivate students through presentations and a question-and-answer session with local leaders on topics ranging from health, financial literacy and business to community activism.

On Sunday, Jan. 14, the festival continues with activities starting at 4 p.m. at the Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh St.

Various organizations will have displays on how to “Get Active” by making investments in education, career, health, finances and social causes.

At 4:15 p.m. collegiate choirs will perform as part of the festival’s gospel showcase, while at 5:15 p.m., there will be a drumline competition featuring the region’s best high school drumlines.

Topping off the day will be the 7 p.m. basketball showdown between VUU and VSU.

Game tickets are $20.

For details, game tickets and student registration for the Leadership Summit, visit www.freedomclassicfestival.com.