The Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) is turning what would have been Jim Henson’s 90th birthday into a four-day celebration for fans of puppetry, television, film and the unforgettable characters that helped define generations of entertainment.
From September 24 through 27, MoMI in Astoria, Queens, will host Celebrating Jim Henson’s Birthday 2026, a weekend packed with screenings, workshops, live music, fan activities, special guests and opportunities to celebrate the legendary creator.
At the center of the festivities is The Jim Henson Exhibition, MoMI’s immersive showcase dedicated to Henson’s groundbreaking career. The exhibition features 50 characters from productions including The Muppet Show, Fraggle Rock, Sesame Street and Henson’s Muppet films, giving visitors an opportunity to see many beloved creations up close while exploring the artist’s influence on popular culture.
The birthday weekend expands on MoMI’s annual Henson celebration with activities designed for both longtime fans and newcomers. Free programming will include a Puppet Prom with a DJ, dancing and mask-making, a showcase of Henson-inspired fan art, live artist demonstrations, a costume contest, courtyard performances and the collectibles “Swa(m)p Meet.”
The lineup also brings together performers and creatives connected to Henson’s legacy. Stacey Gordon, known for portraying Julia on Sesame Street, will lead an interactive Puppet Tea Party. Kate Micucci will serve as a celebrity judge for the costume contest, while Henson performers Martin P. Robinson, Ryan Dillon, Stephanie D’Abruzzo, John Tartaglia and Peter Linz will participate in an “Inspired by Jim Henson” panel.
Fans can also hear behind-the-scenes stories during the “Inside Jim Henson’s Creature Shop” panel, featuring Fred Buchholz, Jason Weber, Rollie Krewson, Bonnie Erickson and Lara MacLean. A live podcast taping with ToughPigs and an interactive song circle led by community song leader Dodie Whitaker are also on the schedule.
Film and music will have a place in the celebration as well. Programming includes a 60th anniversary screening of Henson’s Oscar-nominated short Time Piece, a presentation by Karen Falk, and The American Banjo Museum’s Henson Sing-Along with Lucas Ross. Craig Shemin will host The Muppet Show: 50 Greatest Moments.
On September 25 and 26, Heather Henson and friends will lead a Sing-Along & Stroll-Along tour through Manhattan ending at MoMI, although tickets are limited.
MoMI and The Jim Henson Company will also debut a limited-edition merchandise collection created specifically for the milestone celebration.
With free events, ticketed programs and exhibition tours throughout the weekend, MoMI’s celebration offers fans a chance to revisit the imagination of one of entertainment’s most influential creators while keeping his spirit of creativity alive for a new generation.