Jon Stewart Joins Star-Studded 2026 Tanglewood Popular Artist Lineup

The Boston Symphony Orchestra has officially pulled back the curtain on its 2026 Tanglewood Popular Artist Series, revealing a heavyweight roster that spans rock, country, indie, and comedy.

In a major update to the summer schedule, the BSO announced that legendary comedian and The Daily Show host Jon Stewart will perform at the Koussevitzky Music Shed on Saturday, June 20, at 7 p.m. Stewart will be joined by special guest band Church and State. Tickets for this newly added performance are set to go on sale Monday, March 23, at 10 a.m.

A Summer of Legends and Debuts

The 2026 season is defined by a mix of Tanglewood icons and highly anticipated first-time appearances.

Paul Simon will make his long-awaited Tanglewood debut with two performances of his "A Quiet Celebration" tour on June 27 and 28. The shows will feature a complete performance of his Grammy-nominated work Seven Psalms, followed by a set of career-spanning hits.

Other major debuts this season include:

• Carrie Underwood: The eight-time Grammy winner and American Idol judge takes the stage August 29.
• Cynthia Erivo: The Wicked star joins the Boston Pops on August 21.
• Tedeschi Trucks Band: The 12-piece rock and soul powerhouse arrives September 2.
• Ziggy Marley: Carrying on his father's reggae legacy, Marley debuts July 14 on a double bill with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue.

Independence Day Traditions

The Berkshires’ favorite July 4th tradition continues as James Taylor and his All-Star Band return for two nights on July 3 and 4. This year carries extra significance as Taylor celebrates 52 years of performing at the venue, coincided with America’s 250th anniversary. As always, the July 4 show will conclude with fireworks over the Stockbridge Bowl, with proceeds donated by Kim and James Taylor to support Tanglewood.

Full 2026 Popular Artist Lineup

The current schedule features a diverse array of talent:

• June 20: Jon Stewart with Church and State
• June 21: Yacht Rock Revue
• June 27–28: Paul Simon
• July 3–4: James Taylor and his All-Star Band
• July 14: Ziggy Marley and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
• July 21: “Weird Al” Yankovic with Puddles Pity Party
• July 28: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit with Patty Griffin
• August 11: Hugh Jackman with the Boston Pops
• August 18: Brandi Carlile with Jensen McRae
• August 21: Cynthia Erivo with the Boston Pops
• August 29: Carrie Underwood
• September 2: Tedeschi Trucks Band with Lukas Nelson
• September 5: Alabama Shakes with Mavis Staples
• September 6: John Fogerty & Steve Winwood

Ticket Information

Tickets for Jon Stewart go on sale March 23 at 10 a.m. Tickets for all other previously announced shows are currently on sale.

To prevent price gouging and third-party reselling, all tickets will be issued via Mobile Delivery or held at the Box Office, with a limit of eight tickets per purchaser.

• Online: Tanglewood.org
• Phone: 888-266-1200
• In Person: Symphony Hall Box Office (Boston) or the Tanglewood Box Office (Lenox).