This is the city's most substantial MLK Day observance — a real morning of oratory and performance in one of Brooklyn's great theaters, not a token ceremony. The keynotes are consistently national-caliber voices in the civil-rights tradition. It is free, all ages, and the surrounding day of art and family programming makes it easy to bring everyone.
What to expect
A roughly two-hour morning program of speeches, gospel and classical music, and dance in the opera house, with the theater filling early. Family workshops, film, and art programming typically continue at BAM through the afternoon. Arrive early — the house fills to capacity.
Good to know
- Expected Monday, January 18, 2027 (MLK Day) — based on the 40-year annual tradition; BAM posts the program in winter
- Free; in 2026 tickets were distributed first-come, first-served from 8am on the day of the event
- Held in the Howard Gilman Opera House, Peter Jay Sharp Building, 30 Lafayette Ave in Fort Greene
- Keynote speakers are announced in advance — 2026 featured Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II
- 2/3/4/5/B/D/N/Q/R to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr is a short walk
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Common questions
How do I get tickets to the BAM MLK tribute?
The event is free. In recent years tickets have been handed out first-come, first-served starting at 8am on the day at BAM — check bam.org/mlk once the 2027 program is announced for that year's procedure.
Is the tribute appropriate for kids?
Yes — beyond the main-stage program of speakers and performances, BAM typically runs family activities and art-making throughout the day, and the event is explicitly community- and family-oriented.
