A weeklong tribute to Hip-Hop culture taking place in Washington, D.C.
Hip-Hop royalty will take center stage this summer in the nation’s capital as Kid ‘n Play and the Jungle Brothers headline the National Hip-Hop Museum’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on August 23rd, 2025, at the iconic Woolly Mammoth Theatre in Washington, D.C. But this year’s event is more than just a ceremony—it’s a full-fledged, weeklong celebration of the culture that shaped generations.
For the first time in its history, the National Hip-Hop Museum is expanding the induction into a dynamic week of immersive events, honoring the culture’s roots, icons, and future. From August 18th to August 22nd, the Museum, in partnership with the Downtown D.C. Business Improvement District and Woolly Mammoth Theatre, will host “Hip-Hop Happy Hours”—a vibrant series of free, all-ages experiences packed with art battles, breakdance forums, live DJ sets, historical exhibits, and daily cash prizes.
The induction class is a who’s who of Hip-Hop pioneers: Kid ‘n Play, Jungle Brothers, DJ Red Alert, Dana Dane, Kwamé, Sweet Tee, and DJ Hollywood—all artists whose fingerprints are forever imprinted on the genre’s DNA. The ceremony marks a special milestone for Kid ‘n Play, landing on the 35th anniversary of the cult-classic film House Party, a cultural touchstone that seamlessly blended music, dance, and Black joy.
“This will be one of our most memorable induction ceremonies as we honor Kid ‘n Play. Their cultural impact on American music cannot be overstated” said Master Gee of The Sugarhill Gang.
Here’s What To Expect During The Celebration:
- Aug. 18th – MC Monday: Freestyle open mic with a $250 prize
- Aug. 19th – Turntable Tuesday: DJ mix-off with a $250 prize
- Aug. 20th – Wild Style Wednesday: Graffiti battle featuring live art and a $250 prize
- Aug. 21st – B-Boy & B-Girl Thursday: Breakdance forum with DJ B Blast and $250 up for grabs
- Aug. 22nd – Grown Folks Friday: 18+ dance party with DJ B Blast and a curated pop-up shop
Each day, the venue will transform into a Hip-Hop epicenter from 12–10 PM EST, featuring interactive exhibitions, including rare Golden Era artifacts, platinum plaques, stage-worn outfits, and the powerful Hip-Hop Declaration of Peace by KRS-ONE.
Other highlights include a custom cake-sculpting performance by DJ DVS, live painting tributes by resident artist Kevin “Scene” Lewis, and a special Beat Battle hosted by Rapper Big Pooh and Apollo Brown.
On induction day, the red carpet rolls out at 4 PM EST. Followed by a live podcast interview with the inductees hosted by Grandmaster Caz, a formal reading of the Mayor’s Proclamation by D.C. BID President Gerren Price, and a spiritual blessing led by Dr. Ansel “Preach” Augustine. The official induction ceremony kicks off at 7 PM EST, hosted by Master Gee, with tributes by DJ RBI, Jay Quan, and NHHM Fashion Director Neil Taylor, who will present handcrafted medallions by artist Bucky Davis.
The evening includes a star-studded concert, with performances by Dana Dane, Kwamé, Jungle Brothers with DJ Red Alert, and an unforgettable headlining set by Kid ‘n Play. Interested in going? Tickets and full programming details are available at nationalhiphopmuseum.org.
