Shakira and The Weeknd are set to headline the 2025 Global Citizen Festival, scheduled for September 27 at the Great Lawn in Central Park, New York. The event will be hosted by Global Citizen ambassador Hugh Jackman and will feature performances from other artists including Tyla, Ayra Starr, and Mariah the Scientist, with additional acts to be revealed soon.
The theme for this year’s festival revolves around the mission to provide energy access to one million people throughout Africa. This initiative aims to ensure quality education and access to football for 30,000 children globally through a partnership with FIFA. Furthermore, the campaign seeks to mobilize $200 million for the protection of 30 million hectares of the Amazon rainforest, alongside efforts to register 40,000 volunteers in New York City.
Tickets for this highly anticipated event will be free, with attendees able to earn them by engaging with the Global Citizen app and supporting the initiative’s causes.
In expressing her excitement, Shakira stated, “I’m honored to headline the incredible Global Citizen Festival in Central Park this September. Music has always been my way of connecting with people and leaving a mark on the world. I can’t wait to perform, unite, and inspire action.” Meanwhile, Jackman remarked on the significance of the festival and the progress made over the past eleven years of his hosting. He emphasized the Global Citizen movement’s intent to instigate positive change across the globe.
Global Citizen previously co-produced the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup halftime show on July 13, which showcased a lineup that included Doja Cat, J Balvin, Tems, and Coldplay, further illustrating its commitment to combining entertainment with global advocacy.
This festival presents an excellent opportunity for fans to not only enjoy incredible performances but also participate in significant social and environmental causes, embodying the spirit of unity and action.