Full Breakdown
Shakira and Cardi B Headline the 2025 Global Citizen Festival in Central Park
9/28/2025, 8:30:21 PM
A Celebration of Music and Activism
The 2025 Global Citizen Festival took place on September 27, 2025, at Central Park's Great Lawn in New York City, attracting over 60,000 attendees. Headlined by Shakira and Cardi B, the festival aimed to raise awareness and funds for critical global issues, including poverty alleviation, climate action, and education access. The event, organized by Global Citizen, required attendees to earn their tickets through social activism, such as signing petitions and volunteering, reinforcing the festival's mission that individual actions can lead to significant change.
Key Performances and Highlights
Shakira's performance was a standout moment, featuring a mix of her classic hits and newer songs, including "She Wolf" and "Hips Don’t Lie." Her set culminated in a powerful rendition of "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," which resonated deeply with the audience. Cardi B, a last-minute addition to the lineup after The Weeknd's withdrawal, also delivered a high-energy performance while pregnant, showcasing songs from her latest album, *Am I the Drama?* Her set included fan favorites like "Bodak Yellow" and "I Like It."
The festival also featured performances from artists such as Tyla, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, and a special appearance by ROSÉ. The diverse lineup highlighted the festival's commitment to global representation and cultural unity.
Goals and Impact of the Festival
This year's festival focused on ambitious goals: providing energy access to one million people in Africa, raising $200 million to protect the Amazon rainforest, and ensuring quality education for 30,000 children worldwide. Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen, emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, "When we unite, we make noise that leads to real change." The festival successfully raised over $280 million for its initiatives, including a significant pledge from the Inter-American Development Bank.
Voices of Change
The festival was not solely about music; it also featured speeches from activists and public figures. Co-hosted by Hugh Jackman, Bill Nye, and Danai Gurira, speakers included Kristen Bell and United Nations Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed, who addressed pressing global issues such as climate change and social justice. Mohammed's remarks underscored the need for unity and action, stating, "The world needs people like you."
Criticism and Controversies
Despite the festival's success, it faced scrutiny due to past controversies, including damage to Central Park's Great Lawn from heavy rain during the 2023 festival. This raised questions about the festival's future location. However, the 2025 event proceeded with a renewed sense of purpose, demonstrating the resilience of the Global Citizen movement.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The 2025 Global Citizen Festival served as a powerful reminder of the intersection between culture and activism. Through music and advocacy, the event inspired attendees and viewers worldwide to take action against poverty and climate change. As Shakira's performance echoed through Central Park, the festival reinforced the belief that change often begins with a single voice, united for a common cause.
