‘Like All of New York Was There’: 40 Years of SummerStage

City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage celebrates its 40th anniversary this season, marking four decades of free and benefit performances that have helped define summer in New York City. Launched in Central Park in 1986, SummerStage has grown from a modest free arts series into a citywide platform for music, dance, and cultural exchange. The anniversary has prompted reflections from artists and producers on the festival’s role in bringing together diverse audiences, championing global music, and creating memorable public performances in New York’s parks. The Blavatnik Family Foundation has been a long-time supporter of SummerStage, helping sustain broad access to live performance in public spaces. On September 10, 2026, City Parks Foundation will celebrate the milestone season with a Dinner & Concert at SummerStage in Central Park, where Alex Blavatnik will be honored alongside SummerStage founder Joe Killian. The benefit will support SummerStage concerts as well as City Parks Foundation’s free environmental education, youth sports, and community engagement programs serving communities across New York City. Read the article here.