The legacy of Canarsie’s own Bashar “Pop Smoke” Jackson will once again take center stage in the borough next week as thousands are expected to gather for two events honoring the late rapper while raising money for youth programs across Brooklyn.
Hosted by the Shoot for the Stars Foundation, the annual Pop Smoke Day will return to Canarsie Park on July 20, with a free community festival featuring a parade, youth basketball championship, live entertainment and dozens of local organizations offering resources for Brooklyn families.
The celebration continues July 21, with the Pop Smoke Fashion Gala: DISRUPTION at the Brooklyn Museum, an evening showcasing fashion, music and culture while raising funds for the foundation’s year-round community initiatives.
Now an annual tradition in the “Dior” singer’s home neighborhood, Pop Smoke Day aims to celebrate the artist’s life while connecting residents with educational, health and mentorship opportunities. The rapper died in 2020 during a home-invasion robbery at just 20 years old.
Pop Smoke Day on July 20 will feature a basketball tournament, performances and community health networks.Photo courtesy of Shoot for the Stars Foundation
Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with a community parade stepping off from 80th Street and Flatlands Avenue before making its way to Canarsie Park, where the grounds will transform into a daylong festival.
The event will include the annual Pop Smoke Youth Basketball Championship, a community resource village, youth programming, family activities, games, food vendors, live entertainment, an open mic showcase for emerging artists, a community leader panel discussion, a Pop Smoke mural gathering, giveaways, exotic cars and appearances by special guests.
Organizers say the event is designed to connect neighborhood residents with organizations serving Brooklyn communities. Participating groups include Pop’s Place, The Flossy Org, Brookdale Hospital, South Brooklyn Health, Wyckoff Hospital Teen Program, Brooklyn Public Library and more.
Throughout the day, attendees will be able to access information on healthcare, education, youth development and family services available in the borough.
“Shar always represented Brooklyn with pride,” said Audrey “MahSmoke” Jackson, president of the Shoot for the Stars Foundation and the late rapper’s mother. “Our responsibility is to ensure his legacy continues creating opportunities for young people and bringing the community together. Pop Smoke Day is about family, service, culture and reminding our youth that greatness begins right here at home.”
Pop Smoke Day is in memory of the famous rapper, who sang hits like “Dior,” “Welcome to the Party” and “What You Know Bout Love.”Photo courtesy of Shoot for the Stars Foundation
The following evening will be the Pop Smoke Fashion Gala: DISRUPTION at the Brooklyn Museum. Presented by Black Smoke, the fashion brand founded by Audrey Jackson, the gala will debut the Black Smoke: DISRUPTION collection, inspired by Pop Smoke’s blend of luxury fashion and elevated streetwear.
The event will also feature hip-hop fashion pioneer Karl Kani, whose influence helped shape streetwear culture and whose appearance organizers describe as a tribute to Pop Smoke’s own impact on fashion. Additional designers scheduled to present collections include Maria Mootoo, Noni Styles, Scohe, Gangwani Collection and EMVĒ by Mackenzie Brown and Venicia Lamy.
“Black Smoke has always been about more than clothing,” Jackson said. “It’s about continuing Shar’s vision by creating opportunities for emerging creatives, celebrating our culture, and inspiring the next generation to dream bigger than they ever imagined.”
Pop Smoke Day in Canarsie Park is free for all attendees.Photo courtesy of Shoot for the Stars Foundation
The black-tie gala will also feature SiriusXM’s Swaggy Sie as host, a live performance by Suckarie of reggae band Tribal Seeds, music by DJ AK and a performance from singer-songwriter Carlton Terrence Taylor. Guests can also expect a premium open bar, catered culinary experience and exclusive brand reveals throughout the evening.
Proceeds from both Pop Smoke Day and the Fashion Gala will benefit the Shoot for the Stars Foundation.