SummerStage 2026: Celebrate 40 Years of Free Music, Dance & Culture Across NYC
Date: Ongoing Throughout Summer 2026
Location: Parks Across New York City
Admission: Most Events Free
Official Website: https://cityparksfoundation.org/summerstage/
Featured Artists
Laurie Anderson
Sexmob
SHABAKA
Kokoroko
Omar
Spoon
Ratboys
Bodega
Mavis Staples
Angélique Kidjo
Paul Taylor Dance Company
Complexions Contemporary Ballet
The Jazz Continuum
Overview
Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage is celebrating its 40th anniversary season in 2026, marking four decades of bringing free music, dance, and cultural programming to New York City's parks.
Since its founding in 1986, SummerStage has become one of the country's most influential outdoor performing arts festivals. The 2026 season features more than 60 performances across all five boroughs, offering New Yorkers and visitors access to world-class entertainment in iconic public spaces.
What Is SummerStage?
SummerStage is New York City's premier free outdoor performing arts festival. Produced by City Parks Foundation, the festival showcases an eclectic mix of genres including jazz, hip-hop, indie rock, Latin music, soul, global music, contemporary dance, and spoken word.
The festival's flagship venue is Rumsey Playfield in Central Park, but performances take place throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
Must-See Performances
Laurie Anderson & Sexmob
Date: June 26, 2026
Legendary multimedia artist Laurie Anderson joins acclaimed jazz ensemble Sexmob for a special SummerStage performance in Central Park.
SHABAKA, Kokoroko & Omar
Date: July 2, 2026
An evening celebrating jazz, Afrobeat, and contemporary global sounds from some of today's most exciting artists.
Spoon, Ratboys & Bodega
Date: July 8, 2026
A major indie-rock showcase featuring one of the genre's most respected bands alongside rising favorites.
Mavis Staples
Date: July 16, 2026
The Grammy-winning soul and gospel icon brings her powerful voice and decades-spanning catalog to Central Park.
Paul Taylor Dance Company, Complexions Contemporary Ballet & The Jazz Continuum
Date: July 22, 2026
A dynamic evening highlighting contemporary dance and movement from acclaimed companies and performers.
Angélique Kidjo
Date: August 23, 2026
The internationally celebrated singer-songwriter and multiple Grammy Award winner headlines one of the season's most anticipated performances.
Why It's Worth Attending
Most performances are completely free.
Features internationally acclaimed artists and emerging talent.
Celebrates 40 years of New York City cultural history.
Takes place in some of the city's most beautiful parks.
Offers a different experience every weekend.
Accessible to both locals and visitors.
Best Venue for First-Time Visitors
Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
The heart of SummerStage and home to many of the season's largest performances. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Central Park, it remains one of NYC's most iconic outdoor concert venues.
Insider Tips
Arrive early for popular performances, especially at Central Park.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a portable phone charger.
Check the official SummerStage schedule for updates.
Explore performances in other boroughs for a more local experience.
Use public transportation whenever possible.
Quick Facts
Founded: 1986
Organizer: City Parks Foundation
Season: 40th Anniversary
Performances: 60+
Locations: All Five Boroughs
Admission: Most Events Free