By Amanda Moses
Thousands of concertgoers braved a relentless downpour for a good cause at Saturday’s Global Citizen Festival on the Great Lawn in Central Park.
For the second consecutive year the festival plagued by a constant deluge of rain raising concerns about the damage to the Manhattan greenspace which closed early for repairs after last year’s festival. While the festival’s organizers did not anticipate significant damage, they committed to covering the bill for any necessary repairs due to the inclement weather.
“We are so grateful to this city for letting us call the Great Lawn home for the last 12 years, and to you – you are the engine of this movement,” said Hugh Evans, Co-Founder & CEO, Global Citizen Festival. “From calling on G20 nations to increase their funding to the World Bank to enable loans for 75 of the world’s poorest countries, to advocating to protect and restore the Amazon, the actions you took to be here tonight have a huge impact.”
With over 60,000 in attendance on Sept. 28, New Yorkers embodied Gene Kelly’s Singin’ in the Rain as they donned ponchos and galoshes prepared to spend eight hours advocating for equity for marginalized communities, eradicating poverty, and hoping to make a positive impact on the world. Global dignitaries, activists, and entertainers joined forces to announce an over $1 billion commitment to overcome humanitarian issues affecting the world.
The festival showcased an impressive lineup featuring performances from ALOK, Benson Boone, Jelly Roll, RAYE, Rauw Alejandro, LISA, Doja Cat, Post Malone and more.
Fans told Spring Creek Sun that despite the rain, they were in it for the long-haul to see their favorite artists.
“I’m excited to see LISA,” Dania said clapping her hands.
Amidst the downpour, fans pulled out their Rauw Alejandro t-shirts demonstrating their support for the Puerto Rican artist who has been a vocal advocate for the commonwealth in the wake of Hurricane Maria’s devastation.
Despite being drenched in rain, Brooklynite Brian couldn’t hide his bright smile when secured a barricade spot hour ahead of the show.
“I’m here to watch Rauw Alejandro, LISA, Doja Cat and Post Malone. We’re ready for that,” Brain exclaimed.
This year, Global Citizen saw 3.4 million actions on their platforms and included a special announcement about collaborating with FIFA to produce the first-ever FIFA World Cup halftime show. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans and Hugh Jackman, with DJ Khaled and Gayle King shared the exciting news and added that it will be held at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 19, 2025.
The festival concluded with Chris Martin and Ed Sheeran warming up the crowd for the headliner, Post Malone, who closed the event with his hit “Circles” and “Sunflower.
Photos by Amanda Moses
