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Gary, IN – Mayor Eddie Melton and the City of Gary are excited to announce the 2300 Jackson Street Block Party, a two-day event celebrating the birthday of Michael Jackson and honoring the legacy of the Jackson family. This celebration will take place on the campus of the historic Roosevelt High School, at 730 W. 25th Avenue, on August 29th and 30th, 2025. The gathering will offer residents and visitors a weekend filled with entertainment, culture, and community pride.
“As Mayor of Gary, I’m proud to celebrate the enduring legacy of Michael Jackson and the entire Jackson family with this incredible homecoming event,” said Mayor Eddie Melton, “The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party is more than a celebration—it’s a tribute to the roots of greatness that started right here in our city. We honor the Jacksons not just for their global impact, but for the pride and inspiration they continue to give the people of Gary. This weekend is a reminder that world-changing talent can rise from our very own neighborhoods.”
This two-day event will kick off on Michael Jackson's birthday, August 29th, in a celebration hosted by actor and comedian Chris Tucker. Attendees will spend the day immersed in the King of Pop's legendary music and films that continue to inspire generations worldwide.
On Saturday, August 30th, the city will honor the entire Jackson family and welcome home original members of the Jackson 5, Jackie and Marlon Jackson. The day will also feature a special recognition celebrating the life and contributions of Tito Jackson, who passed in 2024.
"Coming back to 2300 Jackson Street is always deeply emotional for me," said Jackie Jackson. "This is where it all started for the Jackson 5, and I have so many memories here. To see Gary celebrating our family's legacy and our roots in this very neighborhood means the world to us."
Marlon Jackson added, "Gary will always be home to us. Being able to come back and celebrate with the people who knew us before we were famous, who watched us grow up on this street, is a blessing. This event is about family, community, and never forgetting where you came from."
The celebration will feature an impressive lineup, including Gary’s own Grammy-award winning vocalist Deniece Williams, who will serve as Saturday's host, and acclaimed rapper Freddie Gibbs. The weekend will also include a special performance by DJ Kid Capri on Saturday and a high-energy tribute performance by Edward Hollis, a nationally recognized Michael Jackson impersonator.
This free, family-friendly weekend is made possible by the generous support of our community sponsors, including Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, Haywood & Fleming Associates, NIPSCO, NiSource, Carmeuse, Centier Bank, and Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys at Law.
For more information, visit https://www.gary.gov/jackson-block-party .
Event Details:
When: Friday, August 29 and Saturday, August 30
Where: Roosevelt High School, 730 W. 25th Avenue
Time: 12:00 PM – 7:00PM
Media Contact:
Erika Blackwell, Chief Communications Officer, City of Gary
eblackwell@gary.gov | (219) 806-6489
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