HOW IT STARTED . . .
The 2026 CITIZEN ARTS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL marks a new chapter in a global movement dedicated to bringing free multidisciplinary performance into public spaces across urban landscapes. While this festival is a brand-new civic venture, it is built on proven expertise. Led by the core producing team behind last year’s acclaimed Down to Earth Festival, Citizen Arts International brings a fresh, international vision to our city’s public spaces. Activating New York City’s landscape with performances that cross artistic disciplines and invite broad public participation, the festival embraces civic dialogue, radical accessibility, and international collaboration in response to a city alive with possibility and change.
Take a look at some of the impactful projects our leadership team helped bring to life last year. Then join us in 2026 as we chart a new path forward, bringing free multidisciplinary arts experiences to New Yorkers throughout the five boroughs.
Ancrage, LaGuardia Performing Arts Center
Soka Tira Osoa, South Street Seaport
HIT OUT!, Fort Greene Park
SANTE!, Brooklyn Commons Park
Arch, Green-Wood Cemetery
Poetic Consultations, Marcus Garvey Park
“There’s no place like Queens when it comes to art and culture. The DOWN TO EARTH Festival goes even further by partnering with community organizations to bring culture directly to our communities. I hope our families will enjoy the festivities they have planned for us.”
— Queesnboro President, Donovan Richards, Jr.
“Brooklyn in a creative engine, and innovative performances in public spaces keeps our borough at the forefront of inventiveness and accessibility. Thank you to the Graduate Center CUNY . . . for bringing public performing arts productions to our city through the DOWN TO EARTH Festival.”
— Brooklyn Borough President, Antonio Reynoso
“Lower Manhattan’s streets and waterfronts are our greatest stage, and the DOWN TO EARTH Festival shows what happens when we bring world-class art back into the public square, free, open, and for everyone. Thank you to the CUNY Graduate Center . . . for democratizing culture and strengthening community.”
— City Council Member, Christopher Marie