Global Citizen Festival 2026: Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean to Headline

The Global Citizen Festival is set to make its highly anticipated return to New York City’s Central Park on Saturday, Sept. 26. This year’s event promises a full day of powerful performances and advocacy, headlined by Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean. The duo will take the stage for a special anniversary celebration of the Fugees’ seminal second and final studio album, The Score.

Joining the headliners on the Great Lawn are a diverse array of artists, including Lenny Kravitz, John Legend, Lainey Wilson, Shaboozey, and Tomorrow x Together. The festival continues its long-standing mission to combat extreme poverty, with this year’s campaign focusing on increasing access to education for children, supporting sustainable farming communities, and expanding electricity access for millions worldwide.

A Legacy of Music and Advocacy

The Fugees’ The Score remains an iconic piece of hip-hop history, featuring timeless tracks like “Killing Me Softly,” “Ready or Not,” and “Fu-Gee-La.” While the group previously attempted to celebrate the album’s 25th anniversary in 2021, the planned tour faced significant challenges. Despite the absence of third member Pras Michel, who is currently serving a 14-year prison sentence, the music continues to resonate with fans globally.

The event will be hosted by Hugh Jackman, with additional appearances from Rachel Brosnahan and Gayle King. Reflecting on the importance of the gathering, Jackman stated, “It’s time to gather once again on the Great Lawn, in the middle of New York City, to tell the world an end to extreme poverty is possible. There’s something every one of us can do to change the world.”

Community Impact and Participation

Lainey Wilson, who is performing at the festival for the first time, expressed her enthusiasm for the cause. “I’m proud to be performing at the Global Citizen Festival,” Wilson noted. “It’s a chance to come together and support important work around children’s education, farmers and food security, and access to electricity — and have a whole lot of fun while we’re at it.”

Fans looking to attend the event can secure tickets by entering a free ticket lottery or by making a $25 charitable donation, which grants immediate access. As the summer season draws to a close, the festival serves as a vital platform for music and social change.