What is Black Music Month at NMAAM?
Black Music Month is a month-long celebration every June at the National Museum of African American Music honoring the artists, genres, and cultural contributions that define the American musical story. NMAAM is the federally recognized home of Black Music Month, and this year marks our 5th anniversary celebration under the theme The Soundtrack Continues.
When does Black Music Month 2026 take place?
All June long — June 1 through June 30, 2026 — at NMAAM, 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203.
Where can I find the full event schedule?
The full schedule, event descriptions, and ticket links are all at www.nmaam.org/bmm/bmm-schedule/
The page is updated as new events and announcements are added throughout the month.
Is NMAAM open during Black Music Month?
Yes. The museum is open during regular operating hours throughout June. Select events require separate tickets and may take place during or after regular museum hours. Check individual event listings for specific times and access details.
Is parking available?
Paid parking is available at the Metropolis garage at 598 Broadway. The rate is $22 flat. Street parking and other nearby garages are also available throughout the 5th and Broadway complex. Payment at this garage is taken exclusively via smartphone by scanning the QR codes posted within the garage. Your license plate is scanned upon entry and exit and is connected to your Metropolis account online.
Can I tour the museum?
Yes! NMAAM’s galleries are open from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday – Saturday, and 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm on Sunday – Monday for self-guided tours.
How do I purchase tickets for BMM events?
All tickets are available at nmaam.org/bmm. Each event has its own Eventbrite page with pricing, capacity, and reservation details. We recommend purchasing in advance as many events have limited capacity and sell out quickly.
Do I need a separate ticket for each event?
Yes. Each signature event requires its own ticket. General museum admission does not include ticketed evening events unless otherwise noted.
Are any events free?
Yes. Juneteenth Community Day on June 19 is free and open to the public with registration. Nissan Free Wednesdays offer free museum admission every Wednesday in June. Soul Food Sundays are free community activations every Sunday in June. Check nmaam.org/bmm for registration links.
What is the difference between General Admission and VIP tickets?
General Admission provides entry to the event with open or theater-style seating. VIP tickets include reserved bistro table seating, closer to the stage, and may include additional perks depending on the event. Table packages are also available for select events and include branded recognition.
Do NMAAM members receive discounts?
Yes. NMAAM Annual Members receive discounted admission to select events including First Note: Black Creators Night. Member pricing is available at checkout. Not a member yet? Join at nmaam.org.
What does a FRONT ROW ticket include?
Every FRONT ROW ticket includes a one-year NMAAM museum membership in addition to event admission. FRONT ROW is NMAAM’s signature intimate artist series — 400 guests, in-the-round seating, moderated conversation, and live performance.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Some events may have tickets available at the door, but we strongly recommend purchasing in advance. Several BMM events are expected to sell out. Walk-up availability is not guaranteed.
For general museum gallery admission, those tickets can always be purchased at the front desk during regular business hours.
Are tickets refundable?
All ticket sales are final. No refunds are issued. Event credit may be available in select circumstances. Contact community@nmaam.org with questions.
Is NMAAM ADA accessible?
Yes. NMAAM is fully ADA accessible with elevator access, accessible restrooms, and designated seating areas at all events. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us in advance at info@nmaam.org so we can best accommodate you.
Is there a coat check or bag policy?
Bags are subject to inspection upon entry. There is no dedicated coat check. There are free lockers available for guest use inside the Broadway entrance. NMAAM reserves the right to restrict oversized bags at select evening events. No backpacks are allowed inside museum galleries.
Can I bring children to BMM events?
Family-friendly events including Juneteenth Community Day and Soul Food Sundays welcome guests of all ages. Some evening events including First Note, the Black Music Executive Toast, and FRONT ROW are designed for adult audiences. Please review individual event listings for age recommendations before purchasing tickets.
Is food and beverage available at events?
Yes. The Amplify Lounge is activated as a bar and elevated concessions area at select ticketed events. Concessions vary by event and may include elevated food options. Outside food and beverage is not permitted.
How can my company get involved as a sponsor?
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for select BMM 2026 events. Contact Dexter D. Evans at devans@nmaam.org for information on available packages.
How can my organization volunteer for Juneteenth Community Day?
We welcome corporate volunteer groups for Juneteenth. Contact Sydney Watson at swatson@nmaam.org to learn about available volunteer opportunities on June 19 at the museum and at Centennial Park.
What is The Prelude on June 1?
The Prelude is an invitation-only Legends Society Benefit Dinner for NMAAM’s major donors. It is not open to general public ticket sales. If you are interested in becoming a Legends Society member, contact devans@nmaam.org.
What is the Black Music Executive Toast on June 18?
The Black Music Executive Toast is an industry networking event for music professionals of all levels — from entry-level to executive. It takes place following the PJ Morton Exhibition Opening on the evening of June 18 and runs through midnight. Dress is night out/cocktail.
Can I attend both the PJ Morton Exhibition Opening and the Black Music Executive Toast on June 18?
Yes. These are two separate ticketed events on the same evening.
What is BEEN Country?
BEEN Country is NMAAM’s annual CMA Fest partnership showcase celebrating Black artists in country music. This year’s event on June 5 features a moderated conversation with Rissi Palmer, founder of Color Me Country Radio, followed by live performances from four emerging artists. It is an official CMA Fest ancillary event.
Will the PJ Morton exhibition be available to visit after opening night?
Yes. The Saturday Night Sunday Morning exhibition opens June 18 and runs through September 30, 2026. It is included with general museum admission after opening night.
What is Sounds in Cinema?
Sounds in Cinema is NMAAM’s film screening series. During Black Music Month, we present We Want the Funk on June 3, a documentary celebrating George Clinton’s P-Funk universe, ahead of the We Sound Crazy Live Podcast Taping that evening.
What is Nissan Free Wednesdays?
Every Wednesday in June, NMAAM offers free general admission to all visitors, made possible by Nissan. No ticket purchase required — just walk in during regular museum hours.