Downtown Brooklyn Partnership announced its spring and early summer lineup of its annual events series, Downtown Brooklyn Presents, which celebrates the people and plazas of one of the nation’s most booming downtowns.
The creative energy of Downtown Brooklyn will be on full display as we stilt walk and dance through Abolitionist Place, commemorate Juneteenth, and showcase some of the best curated lineups of live entertainment. The spring programming launch sets in motion a season of outdoor arts and performances that build community and honor culture.
“The start of our annual Downtown Brooklyn Presents event lineup represents one of the most exciting times here in Downtown Brooklyn,” said Regina Myer, president of Downtown Brooklyn Partnership. “The open spaces that connect and serve our community will come alive with a dynamic calendar of events for everyone to enjoy, from family-friendly crafts to swinging nighttime dance parties. We look forward to seeing Brooklynites, New Yorkers and other visitors make the most of our neighborhood this Spring and Summer.”
DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN PRESENTS 2026: Spring/Early Summer Calendar
Tandon Research Excellence Exhibit
Friday, April 24 | 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Brooklyn Commons Park
This annual outdoor event features student and faculty projects that demonstrate the scope of engineering at NYU Tandon, and its potential to improve the world. Celebrate their academic contributions and experience incredible projects, enjoy giveaways, food trucks, a photo booth, and more!
Wednesday Wonders
Wednesdays in May and June | 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Abolitionist Place
Enjoy the wonders of Abolitionist Place—where every Wednesday in May and June offers a new adventure! Presented with support from Council Member Lincoln Restler and the New York City Council.
Brianna Kalisch (May 6, 13, 20 and 27)
Brianna Kalisch isn’t just a stilt walker — she’s a multi-talented circus artist, performer, and creative producer whose work blends physical artistry with storytelling. Catch her as she struts through the park and learn the art of stilt walking! All skill levels are welcome and equipment will be provided.
Flow Juggle (June 3, 10 and 24)
Toss some fun into your day with Brooklyn's favorite juggler, Martin Kalwill. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to up your juggling game, Martin has tips and tricks for all. All skill levels are welcome and equipment will be provided.
Table Tennis Thursdays
Thursdays in May and June | 12:00pm-2:00pm
Brooklyn Commons Park
Team DBP will be serving a series of lunchtime ping pong games. Find a partner, grab a paddle and let the games begin!
Show Brooklyn Some Love Fest
Saturday, May 9 | 11:00am - 2:00pm
Albee Square, Albee Square West and City Point
Celebrate Brooklyn moms with a joyful day of fun featuring a pick-your-own bouquet flower bar, DJ Mike spinning in Albee Square, hands-on crafts, the Brooklyn Museum on Wheels, and family photo moments.
BAM DanceAfrica Outdoor Bazaar
Saturday, May 23 | 12:00pm - 10:00pm
Sunday + Monday, May 24-25 | 12:00pm - 8:00pm
The Plaza at 300 Ashland
The nation’s largest celebration of African diasporic dance and music returns for its 49th year on Memorial Day Weekend. DanceAfrica’s global marketplace of Black arts and crafts will be on the Plaza again this year.
Finding Grace Community Workshop
Saturday, May 30 | 2:00pm - 3:15pm
The Plaza at 300 Ashland
Adam Space (rain location)
Inspired by Ronald K. Brown’s Grace, this workshop introduces participants to his movement style through a guided warm-up and choreography. Participants explore themes of transformation, healing, and compassion through movement; discovering how grace can be embodied in dance and in everyday life.
Live @ MoCADA
Saturday, May 30 | 4:00pm - 8:00pm
The Plaza at 300 Ashland
Lunchtime Entertainment
Tuesdays, June 2, 23 and 30 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Brooklyn Commons Park
Visitors to Brooklyn Commons Park will be swept up in dynamic performances as the lunchtime stage comes alive with a rich mix of music and entertainment. Set in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn, the Commons provides the perfect backdrop for vibrant arts and culture.
June 2: Te Encontro no Samba
Te Encontro no Samba (TENS) is an Afro-Brazilian music project founded in 2017 to promote Brazilian culture in the United States. What began as a small “roda de samba” performance group has since evolved into a range of artistic and cultural initiatives, marked by an infectious sound and a vibrant celebration of Afro-Brazilian traditions.
June 23: Kréol Fest
Kréol Fest is a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich tapestry of Creole culture through an eclectic mix of music, dance, visual arts, literature, fashion, and cuisine. Join Natie Music and a diverse array of artists from Creole communities around the world for an unforgettable experience that honors and unites a shared heritage.
June 30: saxofshaolin
Saxophonist and composer Ben Chin leads saxofshaolin, a captivating fusion of Eastern and Western musical influences. Drawing from American, Southeast Asian, and Afro-Caribbean traditions, he creates a sound that celebrates cultural connections. As a Hakka Chinese immigrant and nomad, his music blends traditional and contemporary elements, making it both danceable and spiritual.
Family Dance Jam + Craft + Carry Pop-Up Pour
Friday, June 5 | 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Friday, June 12 | 5:00pm - 8:00pm (Rain Date)
Abolitionist Place
Bring the whole family for an outdoor dance party with music, and a lively neighborhood vibe, plus libations provided by Craft + Carry for those 21 years of age and older.
The Brooklyn Poetry Slam
Tuesday, June 9 | 6:00pm - 8:00pm
The Plaza at 300 Ashland
Join us for the 2026 finale of BRIC's Brooklyn Poetry Slam, hosted by the series’ esteemed co-founders, poets Mahogany L. Browne and Jive Poetic, and featuring the Poetry Slam winners from earlier in the season.
Summer Stories: The BKLYN Reading Scene
Saturday, June 13 | 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Saturday, September 26 Rain Date
Abolitionist Place
Kick off summer reading with Reading Rhythms, Downtown Brooklyn Partnership and City Point hosting an inspiring community event blending books, music, and storytelling for readers of all ages. Registration is required. [add link]
Fútbol Watch Party and Sound + Fury Pop-up Pour
Tuesday, June 16 | 2:30pm - 8:00pm
Brooklyn Commons Park
Catch France vs. Senegal, then stay for the Norway vs. Iraq match at the best outdoor soccer watch party in Downtown Brooklyn. Enjoy an afternoon of live music and dance with Babacar Mbaye, followed by a set from DJ YB. Between goals, grab a cold drink at the Sound + Fury pop-up bar—and soak up the high energy and festival atmosphere all afternoon.
Kid’s Soccer Village and Watch Party
Wednesday, June 17 | 3:30pm - 6:00pm
Brooklyn Commons Park
Brooklyn Commons Park will transform into Downtown Brooklyn’s Soccer Village for the day. Join us for an afternoon of soccer-themed crafts, goal-shooting activities, Duplo LEGO play, foosball tables, live screen printing and more—and catch the England vs. Croatia match! This event is in partnership with Brooklyn Bridge Parents, Brooklyn FC, Fresh Grocer and Dave & Buster’s.
We Outside! A BK Juneteenth
Saturday, June 20 | 12:00pm - 8:00pm
The Plaza at 300 Ashland
651 ARTS presents its We Outside! A BK Juneteenth, Vol. IV, a commemoration of African-American emancipation featuring a day of performances and activities.More information TBA.
En Garde Arts Presents: playdate Fest!
Thursday, June 25 | 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Abolitionist Place
playdate Fest!, En Garde Arts’ curated summer performance series spotlighting award-winning musicians and musical-theatre artists, returns in its biggest iteration yet. This year’s edition is curated by Modesto “Flako” Jimenez, a Dominican-born, Brooklyn-raised multidisciplinary artist. Presented in collaboration with the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership—with support from Council Member Lincoln Restler and the New York City Council.
Friday Night Dance with Public Service!
Friday, June 26 | 5:00pm - 8:00pm
The Plaza at 300 Ashland
Public Service is a dance party for the people, by the people. Conceived and DJ'd by Toribio + Mickey Pérez, the pair pays homage to NYC's block party/park jam culture by fusing 50+ years of American dance music alongside rhythms from the African, Caribbean, and South American diasporas. Powered sonically by Karlala Soundsystem, Public Service honors the musical past while simultaneously paying tribute to the present & future.
