Global Citizen Festival Cancels First Show in 14 Years, YOSHIKI's Debut Performance Scrapped

The 2026 Global Citizen Festival in New York's Central Park has been canceled due to severe weather. The event, which was scheduled for September 26, marks the first cancellation in the festival's 14-year history.

YOSHIKI was set to be the first Japanese artist to perform at the festival, with plans to lead an audience of approximately 60,000 in singing "ENDLESS RAIN." The lineup also included Ms. Lauryn Hill & Wyclef Jean, Lenny Kravitz, John Legend, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and others, with Hugh Jackman hosting.

Organizers Global Citizen, in consultation with New York City and NYC Parks, cited public safety as the primary reason. A state of emergency was declared for New York City and surrounding counties ahead of an approaching nor'easter, with forecasts predicting heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding.

In an Instagram post, YOSHIKI expressed his disappointment. "It's truly, truly frustrating," he wrote. He detailed months of preparation for the performance, which was also to include "Red Swan" and a surprise guest. "I promise, I will come back in an even bigger way," he added.

Global Citizen has stated its intention to return to Central Park for the festival in 2027.

Source: PR Times via YOSHIKI PR事務局