Brooklyn Children’s Museum is bringing roller skating back to its rooftop and opening a new exhibition exploring the science of BMX as part of its fall 2026 season, with cultural celebrations and family programs running from September through December.
The season begins with Gabby’s Dollhouse MEOWseum Discovery Days Sept. 11-13, followed by Brooklyn Circus on Sept. 19 and Empire Skate of Mind on Sept. 26. The roller skating event will transform the museum’s rooftop terrace into an all-ages rink inspired by the former Empire Roller Rink.
Families can also take part in circus activities, including aerial hammocks, juggling and balancing.
“Brooklyn Children’s Museum gives children and caregivers the freedom to learn through play, discovery and community,” said Atiba T. Edwards, president and CEO of Brooklyn Children’s Museum. “As children head back to school this fall, BCM offers a joyful complement to the classroom: a place where they can follow their curiosity and discover how much of the world is within reach right here in Brooklyn. We are proud to make these experiences accessible to every family.”
October programming will feature Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrations Oct. 11-12, Antiracist Family Day on Oct. 15 and the opening of Riders Ready: The Science of BMX on Oct. 17. The exhibition will use hands-on activities to teach visitors about bike setup, track design, helmet safety, speed, energy, balance and friction.
The programming also highlights Brooklyn’s cultural diversity, with events centered on Indigenous traditions, Día de los Muertos, Diwali and Kwanzaa. Halloween activities on Oct. 31 will combine costumes, trick-or-treating, Japanese culture and anime-inspired programming.
Children will also have opportunities to explore civic participation through Election Day at BCM on Oct. 29, when they can take part in a mock election featuring animal candidates.
Additional programming includes Meet the Muse with Kameelah Janan Rasheed on Nov. 12 and Healing With Play on Nov. 21. Día de los Muertos will be celebrated Nov. 7 with folkloric dance, giant kites, bilingual puppetry and a community ofrenda. Diwali programming Nov. 12 will include puppet storytelling, mithai-making and diya crafts.
The season will close with the museum’s 19th annual Kwanzaa celebration Dec. 26-30, featuring candle lightings, performances, dance, drumming and art workshops inspired by Kwanzaa’s seven principles.
