NBA All-Star weekend will begin Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, with "The Tip-Off" at Bicentennial Unity Plaza, next to Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Indiana Fever legend Tamika Catchings and Indianapolis native comedian and actor Mike Epps will emcee the 45-minute celebration. A surprise national musical artist will perform, and there will be appearances by NBA and Pacers legends, a fireworks display and more.

The 6 p.m. event is free but limited to 5,000 people. Tickets are available at gainbridgefieldhouse.com/tipoff.

The 2024 NBA All-Star Game is Sunday, Feb. 18, but there are events throughout downtown all weekend.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: NBA All-Star Game 2024 begins with the Tip-Off on Thursday, Feb. 15