Every summer since 2009, Spike Lee has thrown Brooklyn's definitive Michael Jackson birthday party, and this year it fills Fort Greene Park with DJ Spinna on the decks from noon to seven. It's the rare block party where professional dancers, lifelong fans and whole families end up in the same moonwalking circle. With the 'Michael' biopic stoking a global MJ revival, the 2026 edition should be electric.
What to expect
A packed park dancing to wall-to-wall Michael Jackson — hits, remixes and rarities — mixed live by DJ Spinna from noon to 7pm. It's a party, not a stage show, so expect dance circles, costumes and a multi-generational crowd that treats Aug. 29 like a holiday. Free, outdoors, and sponsored this year by Jordan Brand.
Good to know
- Free and open to the public — no tickets or RSVP, just show up between noon and 7pm.
- DJ Spinna carries the whole afternoon; come ready to dance, not just watch.
- It's seven hours in an open park — bring water, sunscreen and a blanket.
- Jordan Brand sponsors the 2026 edition of the tradition Spike Lee started in 2009.
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Common questions
Is the block party really free?
Yes. The event is free and open to the public, running noon to 7pm in Fort Greene Park.
Who is performing?
DJ Spinna, Spike Lee's longtime partner on this party, spins Michael Jackson music all afternoon — it's a DJ-driven dance party rather than a concert lineup.
Where exactly in Fort Greene Park is it?
Announcements list Fort Greene Park with no specific corner — the party fills the park, and you'll hear the music from any entrance.
How long has this been going on?
Spike Lee started the tribute in 2009 after Jackson's death, and he and DJ Spinna have kept it an annual Brooklyn tradition, this year with Jordan Brand as sponsor.
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