AceShowbiz - The City Parks Foundation in New York City has revealed the official lineup and schedule for the 2026 Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage concert series, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

Unveiled on April 28, the extensive roster features an eclectic mix of pioneering artists such as Mavis Staples, De La Soul, Spoon, Laurie Anderson, and Angélique Kidjo. The lineup also includes performances by Bilal, MIKE’s Young World with Max B, Julieta Venegas, Edem, Black Country, New Road, Horsegirl, Shabaka, Kokoroko, Trueno, Luedji Luna featuring Liniker, Shaggy, WayV, and Charlie Aponte, among others.

The majority of concerts will be hosted at SummerStage’s flagship venue, Rumsey Playfield in Central Park. Additional shows are scheduled in various parks across the five boroughs, including Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem, Tompkins Square Park in the East Village, Herbert Von King Park in Brooklyn, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, and Crotona Park in the Bronx. Staten Island will also feature SummerStage performances, with the exact location to be announced at a later time.

Heather Lubov, Executive Director of City Parks Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm about the lineup and milestone. In a statement, she emphasized the diverse and dynamic nature of the artists selected, which embodies why SummerStage has remained a beloved cultural fixture in New York City for four decades.

“This season’s exceptional mix of artists truly reflects our city’s rich cultural diversity and our ongoing commitment to bringing memorable live performances to public spaces,” Lubov said, highlighting the festival’s role in celebrating communities throughout the city.

The 40th anniversary theme centers around “honoring the past and future,” with special events and dedicated websites commemorating landmark moments and standout performances since SummerStage’s inception in 1986.

Joe Killian, the founder of SummerStage and a City Parks Foundation board member, reflected on the festival’s growth during its four-decade history. He shared that the original idea was to make world-class music and performing arts accessible to all, not just those who could afford tickets.

Killian, who will receive the SummerStage Icon Award this year, stated, “Forty years ago, I had a simple idea: that world-class music and performing arts belonged to everyone. Four decades later, I’m truly moved by what SummerStage has meant to our city and the community we’ve built with our fans.”

He praised SummerStage’s role as a cultural cornerstone in New York City, noting how it has brought global artists to local parks, curated unique collaborations, and showcased emerging talent. Killian expressed excitement about the future while honoring the festival’s legacy.

Rafael Espinal, Commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, also commented on SummerStage’s importance. He highlighted the significance of providing free, accessible live music to New Yorkers amid affordability challenges.

“We’re proud to support SummerStage by presenting two free shows this season. This is what New York does best—world-class music in our parks, open to everyone,” Espinal said. He emphasized that live music is essential, supporting both audiences and the artists and crews who sustain the city’s vibrant music scene.

The SummerStage concert series will officially kick off on June 10, featuring a performance by Grammy Award-winning singer Ledisi in partnership with the Blue Note Jazz Festival.

As SummerStage celebrates its 40th anniversary, it remains a vital platform for diverse musical experiences, cultural celebration, and community engagement in New York City’s public parks, continuing its mission to make live music accessible for all residents and visitors alike.