Spike Lee will host his annual Michael Jackson Block Party on Aug. 29 at Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn. Jordan Brand sponsors the 2026 celebration. The free event runs from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
DJ Spinna will spin records throughout the afternoon. The filmmaker announced the return of the “BK Loves MJ Block Party” with a poster. It shows “Jordan Brand Presents” next to the Jumpman logo. This partnership connects Lee with the company he helped make famous. His character Mars Blackman appeared in Nike and Air Jordan ads during the late 1980s.
The tradition started in 2009 after Jackson’s death. Lee and DJ Spinna have kept the celebration alive, turning it into a gathering where music, dance, and fans of the King of Pop come together. After several years off, the event returned to Fort Greene Park in 2023 with an edition honoring both Jackson and Prince.
DJ Spinna grew up in Brooklyn. He has worked with the catalogs of Jackson, Prince, and Stevie Wonder through various tribute events spanning decades. The producer will handle musical programming during the seven-hour celebration.
This year’s celebration comes during a wave of renewed interest in Jackson. The Michael biopic has brought new fans to his music and legacy, according to MJ Vibe. Longtime supporters continue their traditions.
Aug. 29 will also see Jackson-themed events across the world. Fan gatherings and concerts will take place. A birthday boat party on the Thames in London is planned. The anniversary has become a global occasion, mirroring the revival that followed the release of This Is It in 2009, when his music experienced a major resurgence after his death.
No special sneakers or exclusive releases tied to the event have been announced. Jordan Brand’s presence as a partner remains the main confirmed element for now.
The celebration takes place at Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn. Admission is free and open to the public.
Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.