Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at this quintessential Brooklyn tradition. BAM’s inspiring annual celebration is back for the 40th year and features powerful remarks by Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II; a special solo performance from Grace by Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE, A Dance Company; a musical performance by The Fire Ensemble; and more. Link arms with friends, neighbors, artists, and civic leaders for a day of reflection, family-friendly activities, and celebration of all who carry Dr. King’s vision of justice and equality forward.
The performance starts at 10:30am. Tickets are free for this event and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 8am on January 19 in the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House lobby. Please note that providing an RSVP does not guarantee entry.
The tribute continues throughout the day with a free screening of Just Mercy at 1pm at BAM Rose Cinemas, a performance by the Brooklyn Music School’s intergenerational choir on the steps of the Peter Jay Sharp Building, and family-friendly activities presented by BAMkids in The Adam Space. See below to learn more.
Kids Day:
Run, Walk, Crawl—Just Move! 11:45am, 1:30 & 3pm
Inspired by Dr. King’s words, “If you can’t fly, run; if you can’t run, walk; if you can’t walk, crawl; but by all means keep moving,” this activity invites everyone to take part in the journey, in whatever way they can. Whether you run, walk, crawl, or simply pause to breathe, each movement is a way of contributing, staying connected, and being part of something bigger. Every step matters, and together we keep hope and resilience alive. This activity is led by Adia Whitaker and Jashua Sa-Ra.
Dear Future Me 11:45am, 1:30 & 3pm
Dr. King often spoke about holding onto faith even when the road ahead was uncertain. He reminded us that “faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Inspired by that spirit, Dear Future Me invites participants of all ages to pause, reflect, and write a message to their future selves—a reminder of strength, hope, and resilience.
Each letter is a seed of encouragement planted for the person you are still becoming. Whether you’re a child drawing what makes you smile, a teen reflecting on courage, or an adult acknowledging your growth, your words are a promise to keep moving forward—just as Dr. King urged us to do. This activity is led by Vibhuti Arya Armifar.
Dr. MLK Jr. Bingo 11:45am, 1:30 & 3pm
Led by Jashua Sa-Ra and David C. Brown, this bingo-inspired activity encourages players of all ages to work together while exploring the history, values, and visionary life of Dr. King.
CommUNITY Tape Mural: Garden of Joy ONGOING THROUGHOUT EACH SESSION
Add your color to the Garden of Joy! Inspired by Dr. King’s vision of unity and resilience, families and children are invited to build this community mural together—one piece of tape at a time. Each color represents infinite hope and the strength we grow when we stand together. Designed and led by Kyung Jeon-Miranda.