On December 28, the National Hip-Hop Museum (NHHM) will host a night that promises to celebrate hip-hop’s legacy in grand style. The historic Bethesda Theater in Maryland will transform into a music, art, and history hub, honoring some of the genre’s most iconic pioneers while marking the 40th anniversary of the seminal hip-hop film Beat Street.

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees include trailblazers who helped shape the culture: Kool Moe Dee, Marley Marl, Lords Of The Underground, Soul Sonic Force, DJ Jazzy Jay, The Fearless Four, and The Treacherous Three. Many of these figures, including Kool Moe Dee and The Treacherous Three, played key roles in Beat Street, cementing their influence in hip-hop and beyond.

A Celebration of Hip-Hop’s Roots

The ceremony marks NHHM’s largest induction event yet, a fitting milestone for an institution devoted to preserving hip-hop’s history. Jeremy Beaver, the museum’s founder, sees the event as a culmination of years of work. “This is the culmination of five years at the museum of intense work to preserve and establish hip-hop as America’s most important cultural export,” Beaver said.

Beyond the inductions, the evening is designed to celebrate hip-hop culture. The festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. with a VIP Pop-Up Retail Experience, offering rare items like vinyl records, sneakers, and action figures from NHHM’s Hip-Hop Shop. Live painting by NHHM’s resident artist Kevin “Scene” Lewis will bring another layer of creativity to the space as Hall of Famer DJ Kool hosts the experience and proudly showcases his RIAA Platinum Award, a first for a Washington, D.C. artist.

For those nostalgic for Beat Street, the event will include a special screening of the film and a live reenactment of its famous Christmas rap scene by Kool Moe Dee.

Honors and Performances

The induction ceremony will begin at 8:00 p.m., led by Master Gee, a founding member of The Sugarhill Gang and NHHM’s Executive Director. Honorees will receive custom Hall of Fame jackets, trophies, medallions, and other memorabilia presented by NHHM Historian Jay Quan, a noted hip-hop expert.

At 9:30 p.m., the spotlight will shift to live performances by the inductees. Attendees can expect to hear classics from Soul Sonic Force, Lords Of The Underground, Kool Moe Dee, and The Treacherous Three, making for an unforgettable night of music.

A Testament to Hip-Hop’s Legacy

The evening is more than just a celebration—it’s a testament to hip-hop’s enduring legacy and influence. By honoring these artists, NHHM continues its mission to solidify hip-hop’s place in cultural history. With its mix of performances, art, and storytelling, the event ensures that hip-hop legends’ contributions are remembered and celebrated with the respect they deserve.

Tickets are still available, with general admission for $75 and VIP access for $125. The event underscores that hip-hop is not merely a genre—it’s a movement that continues to evolve, inspire, and bring people together.

This December, the National Hip-Hop Museum offers fans a chance to experience the culture’s history and vibrancy firsthand. For hip-hop lovers, it’s a night not to be missed.

Tickets can be purchased here.