The City Parks Foundation has unveiled the lineup for its 40th annual Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage concert series in New York City. Headliners include Mavis Staples, De La Soul, and Spoon, with performances across multiple parks starting June 10. The announcement highlights the event's role in providing free access to world-class music.
The City Parks Foundation announced the 2026 SummerStage lineup on April 28, marking the series' 40th anniversary with a theme of honoring the past and future. Performances will span NYC parks, primarily at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park, but also Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem, Tompkins Square Park, Herbert Von King Park in Brooklyn, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, Crotona Park in the Bronx, and a site in Staten Island to be determined later. Additional artists include Laurie Anderson, Angélique Kidjo, Bilal, Julieta Venegas, Shaggy, and others such as Kokoroko and Trueno. Heather Lubov, executive director of the City Parks Foundation, said in a press release: “I am thrilled to announce our 2026 SummerStage lineup and mark our momentous 40th anniversary. This season’s exceptional mix of artists truly embodies why SummerStage has become such a beloved music destination for the past four decades, and reflects our city’s rich cultural diversity.” Joe Killian, SummerStage founder and City Parks Foundation board member, who will receive the SummerStage Icon Award, reflected: “Forty years ago, I had a simple idea: that world-class music and performing arts belonged to everyone, not just those who could afford a ticket.” The season opens June 10 with Grammy winner Ledisi alongside the Blue Note Jazz Festival. Highlights include the Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital Series on June 15, Duck Down Music’s 30th anniversary on July 9, and the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival from August 28 to 30. Rafael Espinal, NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment commissioner, noted: “We’re proud to support SummerStage by presenting two free shows this season. Live music shouldn’t be a luxury, it’s essential.”
