It’s a scene all too familiar, pouring rain the day of the Global Citizen Festival.

Despite the weather, fans still shared their enthusiasm about the day of performances Saturday.


What You Need To Know

  • The annual Global Citizen Festival was held on the Great Lawn in Central Park Saturday

  • Similar to last year, fans watched musical performances in the rain

  • Organizers say the event has altruistic goals, committing attendees to take action against causes like extreme global hunger and climate change

  • It will take a couple of days to find out the extent of any damage to the Great Lawn

“I’m hungry. I’m tired. But I’m excited,” Fathima Nasalie said.

“I’ve been here since 8:30 [a.m.] They’ve been here since 9:30, 9 o’clock, so we’re dedicated,” Yaraleedela Cruz said.

In its twelfth year, the festival, hosted on the Great Lawn in Central Park, draws an estimated 60,000 people to the 12-acre space.

Organizers say the event has altruistic goals, committing attendees to take action against causes like extreme global hunger and climate change.

“We contribute to any costs to restore the park so anyone can use it throughout the world. We are excited to bring 60,000 people together on the Great Lawn to defeat poverty and defend the planet,” co-founder Mick Sheldrick said.

Sheldrick responded to complaints from residents about the damage the festival does to the lawn. He says the focus, though, is on doing good.

“It’s about giving back to the community. It’s about giving back to New York City,” Sheldrick said.

It will take a couple of days to find out the extent of any damage to the Great Lawn.