GLOBAL CITIZEN
MUSIC FESTIVAL
Shakira, The Weeknd, and More to Ignite Central Park at Global Citizen Festival 2025
Benson Boone. Global Citizen Festival 2024. Photo: Pip Cowley (Global Citizen).
One of the most anticipated music-meets-activism events of the year is back. On September 27, thousands will gather on the Great Lawn of Central Park for the 2025 edition of the Global Citizen Festival — and this year’s lineup is serious fire.
NEW YORK CITY. By Pablo Herrera
For Teens Media Network, the Global Citizen Festival represents a powerful intersection of the values we believe in: culture, youth, and action. The event stands as a model for how global issues can be communicated through music and creativity. It inspires the kind of journalism and storytelling we strive to cultivate in our young creators. Our founding sponsor, Colectivo Piloto, has long championed media as a tool for social impact — and festivals like this one reinforce the urgency of building platforms where new generations take an active role in shaping the world.
Headliners Shakira and The Weeknd are leading the charge, joined by rising stars Tyla, Ayra Starr, and Mariah the Scientist. Expect a mix of global sounds, powerful messages, and high-energy performances — all hosted by actor and longtime Global Citizen ambassador Hugh Jackman.
“I’m honored to be part of this,” said Shakira. “Music is a powerful connector — and this stage gives us a chance to turn that energy into action.”
Shakira: Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour Kick Off - Rio de Janeiro, February 11, 2025. Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Live Nation.
But Global Citizen has never been just about music. This year’s campaign is focused on real-world impact — from expanding energy access to over a million people in Africa, to teaming up with FIFA to provide education and sports opportunities for 30,000 kids worldwide. There’s also a major environmental push, aiming to raise $200 million to protect 30 million hectares of the Amazon rainforest, and a local goal of mobilizing 40,000 volunteers across NYC.
Tickets? Still free — but you’ve got to earn them. Passes are available through the Global Citizen app, where users take action on global issues in exchange for entry.
Jackman, who returns to host for the 11th time, added: “This festival continues to grow in meaning and reach. It’s a reminder that change happens when voices unite — and we’re showing up for that.”
Last month, Global Citizen also co-produced the first-ever FIFA Club World Cup halftime show at MetLife Stadium, featuring artists like Doja Cat, J Balvin, Tems, and Coldplay — proving they’re not just part of the conversation, but helping shape it.
Stay tuned — if past editions are anything to go by, more surprise guests and unforgettable moments are on the way.
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